#Person1#: Any message for me, Miss White?
#Person2#: Just one, Mr. Brown. You had a phone call from someone called Smith, Mary Smith.
#Person1#: Smith? I don't know anyone called Smith. What did she say?
#Person2#: She wouldn't say anything. But it sounded important. I told her you'd call her as soon as you came back.
#Person1#: Well, I think I'd better do it then. Have you got her telephone number?
#Person2#: Yes, it's 44356793.
#Person1#: Have you written it down?
#Person2#: I always do. It's on your desk.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: Miss White tells Mr. Brown Mary Smith called him and it sounded important. Mr. Brown will call her back.


#Person1#: How many places have you worked altogether?
#Person2#: Three.
#Person1#: Would you tell me the general description of your present job?
#Person2#: I am in charge of the trading department. I'm handling invoices, shipping bills and computing freight costs, that's most of the documentation.
#Person1#: What time do you go to work?
#Person2#: I must be there no later than 9:00.
#Person1#: What time does the office close?
#Person2#: I quit work whenever I get finished, usually about six o'clock.
#Person1#: Does your work involve a lot of paper filling and typing?
#Person2#: No, the secretary does this. It's not part of my job.
#Person1#: What made you decide to change your job?
#Person2#: I am working in a small company where further promotion is impossible, so I decided to change my job. I'd like to find a job which is more challenging.

Summary: #Person2# has worked three places altogether and tells #Person1# the general description of #Person2#'s present job. #Person2# wants to change #Person2#'s job because further promotion is impossible.


#Person1#: You're watching TV again Peter.
#Person2#: I have washed all the bowls and plates.
#Person1#: But you haven't watered the flowers or fed the birds.
#Person2#: I'm sorry. I forgot, I will do it now.
#Person1#: Your dad just did that for you.
#Person2#: Oh that was really nice of him. Well mom, I turned on the TV only because I want to know the result of the game between Manchester United and Manchester City.
#Person1#: Why didn't you just search online?
#Person2#: My computer isn't working.
#Person1#: Didn't you turn it off after you finished your homework?
#Person2#: Oh that's right. I forgot. No wonder!

Summary: Peter is watching TV and forgot to do some housework. Peter turns off the TV and uses his computer instead.


#Person1#: Professor Edward, could I have a talk with you about the oral presentation?
#Person2#: OK. Was there something about the requirements you didn't understand?
#Person1#: No. I just don't think I can do it.
#Person2#: You don't think you'll be ready in time?
#Person1#: I'm not here to ask for more time. In fact, it's because I'll get very nervous in front of people. It's a problem I've had since I was a child.
#Person2#: I see. There has to be some way we can deal with it.
#Person1#: I could write a paper instead. Some of my teachers in high school let me do that.
#Person2#: But if I let you do that, I'd be opening myself up to the blame of unfair treatment. Well, would you be nervous if you gave the presentation in front of a video camera?
#Person1#: You mean recorded with a camera and then show it to the class? It might work. Actually, that's a great idea. I could do it over and over again until I got it perfect. But the other students, won't they...
#Person2#: Well, I'll have some explaining to do. I think they'll understand.

Summary: #Person1# feels nervous to do the oral presentation in front of people. #Person1# asks Professor Edward if #Person1# could write a paper instead. Edward thinks it's unfair and suggests #Person1# record the presentation and show it to the class. #Person1# agrees.


#Person1#: How do you do? Nice to meet you, Diane.
#Person2#: How do you do, Jack. Nice to meet you.
#Person1#: Well, I think you ' Ve reconsidered our proposal, Diane.
#Person2#: Yes, you are right. After all, the quality of your air conditioners is good. The only problem is price.
#Person1#: I should not be surprised, many customers have the same opinion. Do you have any suggestion in mind? Our salesman told your secretary that the price could be negotiable.
#Person2#: That's why I came to your office today. We think for your model WE - 506 $ 590 would be reasonable, because air conditioners of the same kind sold by other companies are usually about 579-649.
#Person1#: That's true. But if you understand that quality is the most important aspect of a product, you'll agree that 679 is not high, especially when we allow you a 10 % discount.
#Person2#: I see your point. That's to say s 611 each set. Still it's much higher than the market price. Could you see your way to reduce the price, Jack?
#Person1#: Well, considering the quantity of your order we could further reduce the price to 600. That's the best we can do. What do you think of that?
#Person2#: All right. We accept it. So $ 600 for each set.
#Person1#: Very well. Thank you.

Summary: Diane comes to Jack's office to negotiate over the air-conditioners' price. Jack thinks $611 is reasonable for good quality, but Diane mentions the market price is lower. Considering the large quantity of Diane's order, Jack agrees to reduce the price. They agree $600 as a final price.


#Person1#: It's seven o'clock already. Mary should be home by now.
#Person2#: Oh. I forgot to tell you that she called this afternoon and told me that she was going to a party at her classmate's house and wouldn't be home until 10.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that Mary will be home late.


#Person1#: Hi, Dave. This is Zina.
#Person2#: Zina? Zina the Snake?
#Person1#: I got your e-mail a couple of months back.
#Person2#: Yeah? Which one was that?
#Person1#: The one that said, You're a creep. From me you won't hear another peep. I hope you wreck your jeep.
#Person2#: Right. That one. Did it work?

Summary: Zina describes the details of the email Dave sent to her.


#Person1#: I'm going to the park to play baseball with the guys.
#Person2#: But you promised to play chess with me this afternoon.
#Person1#: Yeah, but that was before the guys ask me to join the team.
#Person2#: So what?
#Person1#: You know how much I want to be on the team, and now there is an opening for me. If I don't go to practise today. They'll get someone else and I'll miss my chance.
#Person2#: I don't care about baseball. You know I need to practice for the chess championship and you promised to help with me if I washed the dishes for you last Sunday, and I did.
#Person1#: I know, and I will.
#Person2#: When?
#Person1#: After baseball practice.
#Person2#: And then, it'll be dinner time, then homework, and then your Show is on. You are going to break your promise.
#Person1#: No, I won't. I'm going to skip TV tonight and work on your chess game with you if that's ok with you.
#Person2#: Well, I'd rather do it the way we set up. But if you promise to give me your best game, it's ok with me.
#Person1#: No problem, I'll play as hard as I can and give you an extra game to say thanks.

Summary: #Person1# wants to break #Person1#'s promise of playing chess with #Person2# this afternoon to practice baseball to join a team. #Person2# agrees if #Person1# gives the best game to #Person2# tonight.


#Person1#: Did you happen to bring that book that we were talking about yesterday?
#Person2#: I did. Let me go get it for you. Here you go.
#Person1#: Thanks so much.
#Person2#: I like the way that the gifts I get increasingly more lavish.
#Person1#: I had no idea that there were specific things that should be given on different anniversaries.
#Person2#: So what does it say you should give your wife this first anniversary?
#Person1#: It says that traditionally, give something made of paper.
#Person2#: I can think of two things made of paper stationery and money.

Summary: #Person2# brings #Person1# the book. #Person1# suggests giving the wife something made of paper but #Person2# only thinks of stationery and money.


#Person1#: guess what? I've got great news!
#Person2#: what is it?
#Person1#: well, you know how I've been working at the Economist as a proof-reader, right?
#Person2#: yes.
#Person1#: well, the editor-in-chief heard that I had experience as an editor at another magadize and asked me if I was interested in becoming an assistant editor for him.
#Person2#: really? That's fantastic! Will you get a chance to do any writing?
#Person1#: she said that the columnist for the literary criticism column would be going on pregnancy leave soon and that I could be in charge of the column until she came back.
#Person2#: wow! That's really great news. How often does the magazine come out?
#Person1#: it's a monthly magazine, but my column will be shared with another columnist so my articles will be due fortnightly.
#Person2#: are you looking forward to doing more editing work?
#Person1#: yes, but I'm even more excited about getting my thoughts published again!
#Person2#: do you have any order forms here so that I can get a subscription to the magazine?
#Person1#: I don't have any with me, but I think I could manage to bring a free copy home for you.
#Person2#: I'm really looking forward to reading your column.
#Person1#: me, too. Do you want to go out to celebrate my good news?
#Person2#: sure, where would you like to go?
#Person1#: perhaps we could go to the library festival that's going on at the local bookshop.

Summary: #Person1#'ll become the assistant editor for the editor-in-chief because the columnist will be going on pregnancy leave. #Person2#'s looking forward to reading #Person1#'s column and they decide to celebrate by going to the library festival.


#Person1#: Please make yourselves at home. Let me take your coats. Dinner is almost ready. I hope you brought your appetite
#Person2#: Your house is lovely, Armand! Very interesting decor. . . very. . . Gothic.
#Person3#: I think it's amazing! You have such good taste, Armand. I'm thinking of re-decorating my house. maybe you could give me a few pointers?
#Person1#: It would be my pleasure. Please have a seat. Can I offer you a glass of wine?
#Person3#: We would love some!
#Person1#: Here you are. A very special merlot brought directly from my home country. It has a unique ingredient which gives it a pleasant aroma and superior flavor
#Person3#: Mmm. . . it's delicious!
#Person2#: It's a bit bitter for my taste. . . almost tastes like. . . like. . .
#Person3#: Ellen! Ellen! Are you okay?
#Person1#: Did she pass out?
#Person3#: Yeah. . .
#Person1#: I hope that you didn't poison her drink too much! You'll ruin our meal!

Summary: Ellen and #Person3# visit Armand's house, and they have dinner together. The glass of wine provided by Armand is a bit bitter for Ellen, and she passes out.


#Person1#: Excuse me.
#Person2#: Hello sir, may I help you?
#Person1#: Yes. Can I see that T-shirt on the top shelf please?
#Person2#: Sure. Here it is.
#Person1#: How much does it cost?
#Person2#: 50 dollars.
#Person1#: 50 dollars. That's too much.
#Person2#: How about this one? It's on sale for only 35 dollars.
#Person1#: I don't like that one.
#Person2#: How about the one next to the black gloves? It's very similar to the one you like.
#Person1#: That's nice. How much is it?
#Person2#: 30 dollars.
#Person1#: That'll be fine.
#Person2#: Is this color OK, or would you like a different color?
#Person1#: That blue one's fine.
#Person2#: Do you need any more of these shirts?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: How many do you want?
#Person1#: I'll take two more, a red one and a white one.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# choose T-shirts and #Person1# buys three in different colors.


#Person1#: Flip it to channel 9, will you, Janet? There's a big basketball game on in a couple of minutes.
#Person2#: Sorry, turkey. I have already got dibs on the TV for tonight, remember? And I'm watching'Disco Fever'on channel 6.
#Person1#: Oh, yeah, smarty-pants? Over my dead body. Now, don't be such a brat and. . .
#Person2#: Hey, what's wrong with the TV?
#Person1#: I don't know! The picture went blank all of a sudden. It's probably the picture tube.
#Person2#: Looks like the TV wins that argument.
#Person1#: Yeah. Oh well, how about a game of cards instead?
#Person2#: Sure, why not?

Summary: #Person1# and Janet wants to watch different channels. Suddenly the TV breaks down and they decide to play a game of cards instead.


#Person1#: How about the hiking? It was freezing yesterday, are you all ok?
#Person2#: Can't be better, it was wonderful. We had a lot of fun there. There was so much joy and walk and breathe the winter air. We arrived at the park at 9 o'clock in the morning and didn't leave till 3 o'clock in the afternoon.
#Person1#: You had been walking for 6 hours, isn't that boring?
#Person2#: Of course not! We built a snowman, some snow dogs and one big snow fort. We went sliding on the nice hill. It was a real work out. At noon, we had the most special winter picnic outside. Fortunately, we got it all on a video tape. You must come with us next time. I bet you will love it.
#Person1#: Well. You know I hate walking, but I can't wait to see your guys'video.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# their hiking is wonderful and funny. They built different things with snow, went sliding, and had a winter picnic. #Person1# can't wait to see their hiking video.


#Person1#: I love breathing fresh air in the suburb places, while sitting in the morning sunshine.
#Person2#: I can't agree more, honey. We need to get away from work from time to time.
#Person1#: Yeah, just return to nature and feel the thrills of its beauty.
#Person2#: We are nor alone here. So many other families!
#Person1#: Sure. The sunny days of spring are ideal for outdoor gatherings.
#Person2#: Well, let's go over there and put a blanket on the lawn.
#Person1#: OK, you go back to our car and fetch the picnic stuff.
#Person2#: Oh, so heavy! What have you put in here?
#Person1#: Nothing special. Food, drinks, and Daniel's kangaroo toys.
#Person2#: Toys? Why do we need toys for a picnic?
#Person1#: He said he would like to be our tour director and he lined up many things to do.
#Person2#: Sure, then. May it really be a day of enjoyment. Other than that, we can also teach him something about science.
#Person1#: Science? What are you talking about? Forget about your science, OK? It's a picnic!
#Person2#: I mean we can inspire him for a deeper understanding of the natural world.
#Person1#: I can't agree on that. Just cut it out. Give him a break and don't spoil the day.
#Person2#: Well, OK. you are always right.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# enjoy the suburb and will have a picnic. #Person2# wants to teach their son something about science, but #Person1# wants to give their son a break.


#Person1#: What a lot of rubbish and waste! I just wonder how people can deal with these things every day.
#Person2#: Don't worry, there are many ways of dealing with them. The other day, I heard that a big rubbish factory is being built nearby, and it can be finished in 2 years.
#Person1#: A rubbish factory. To produce rubbish, or to deal with rubbish?
#Person2#: To deal with rubbish of course.
#Person1#: How much rubbish can it deal with each day?
#Person2#: Maybe 3,000 tons. I'm not sure.
#Person1#: Our town will become cleaner after the factory is built.
#Person2#: I hope so.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# a big rubbish factory which can deal with 3,000 tons of rubbish is being built nearby.


#Person1#: Good afternoon, how can I be of service today?
#Person2#: My company wants to become involved in your Comprehensive Credit Granting. We are a very young company and I'm not at all sure if we meet your credit requirements.
#Person1#: It is possible to take into account special circumstances, should the manager agree to it. If your credit rating has been class A in your initial trading period and your debt to asset ratio is sound, and then I'm sure the manager will see you to discuss it further. I'll set up a meeting for you.
#Person2#: That would be wonderful. Thank you so much for all of your help.

Summary: #Person2#'s company wants to join Comprehensive Credit Granting. #Person1#'s manager may agree to take into account special circumstances.


#Person1#: Bill, I'm expecting a big increase in turnover with the coming of the Mid-Autumn Festival. But wholesales are unwilling to supply my orders unless I pay them an advance of 50 % of the full price, for my business is fairly new. I hope that you can make me an advance on loan.
#Person2#: Do you have stocks or a title deed of a house to pledge as security?
#Person1#: No. I should be grateful if you could see your way to make an advance against my personal reputation. You may inspect my accounts. From my accounts you can see that I've promptly met all my obligations.
#Person2#: We do not allow any request for a loan against personal security. This is a common regulation. But we may consider it if you can provide a reliable guarantor.
#Person1#: Yes, I can. You know Mr. Macready, the famous car dealer here in New York. He agreed to act as my guarantor of a loan in the sum of US $ l0, 000 until the end of this year.
#Person2#: Good. He is a man of high standing. I think we can grant the loan you need after some further discussion. But I suggest you borrow on overdraft instead of on loan.

Summary: #Person1# requests a loan against personal security, but it doesn't work. #Person2# suggests providing a reliable guarantor and thinks they can grant the loan if Mr. Macready is #Person1#'s guarantor. #Person2# suggests #Person1# borrow on overdraft instead of on loan.


#Person1#: Hi, Jack. Are you in town for another job interview?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm pretty hopeful this time. I've just finished my second interview with this company.
#Person1#: That sounds great. I hope it works out for you, but wasn't expensive just getting here?
#Person2#: No. In fact, the company is paying all my expenses. They put me up in a hotel downtown.
#Person1#: How nice! How many people are they interviewing?
#Person2#: They interviewed 16 for the first time and then four of us were chosen to go back for this interview.
#Person1#: Well, I hope it goes well. John and I would love it if you come to this area to work.
#Person2#: I would too. But my girlfriend hopes I can find a job close to home.
#Person1#: Oh, what a decision! Good luck!

Summary: Jack tells #Person1# about his second interview with the company. #Person1# hopes the interview goes well and wishes Jack good luck.


#Person1#: Hello, Mr. Hammer. Jack Ross here. I'm calling to confirm our appointment on Monday at ten o'clock in your office.
#Person2#: Yes. Everything's all set.
#Person1#: I'd like to bring Mr. Huang and Ms. Sun with me.
#Person2#: We're supposed to be meeting alone.
#Person1#: I know, but I think they may add something valuable to the discussion.
#Person2#: Fine. But no one else, OK?
#Person1#: Yes, Mr. Hammer.

Summary: Jack Ross calls Mr. Hammer to confirm their appointment and asks for his permission to bring Mr. Huang and Ms. Sun.


#Person1#: I'd like to order room service to room 202, please,
#Person2#: How can I help you?
#Person1#: I'd like two sandwiches and one green fruit salad, please.
#Person2#: Will that be all, sir?
#Person1#: No. Could you also get some extra towels and soup too? We went to the pool today and used up our two clean towels.
#Person2#: I will have someone bring that up right away. How would like to pay for the dinner?
#Person1#: Just put in on with the rest of my hotel bill.
#Person2#: All right, sir. You would receive dinner in about 15 minutes.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# to send dinner, extra towels, and soup to room 202.


#Person1#: Is this your new teacher?
#Person2#: Yes, it is.
#Person1#: Is she short?
#Person2#: No, she's average.
#Person1#: What color are her eyes?
#Person2#: They're dark gray.
#Person1#: What color is her hair?
#Person2#: It's blond.
#Person1#: And how old is she?
#Person2#: I don't know.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# about the new teacher's height, age, etc.


#Person1#: Good game?
#Person2#: Not bad. But too hot for me today.
#Person1#: Yes, I know. Kind of hard to concentrate, isn't it?
#Person2#: Absolutely. Who were you playing with?
#Person1#: Oh, just on my own. I just joined, so I don't really have any partners.
#Person2#: Really? Oh, well, in that case we should play together some time. What's your handicap?
#Person1#: 16. Yours?
#Person2#: No kidding! I'm 16, too. We should definitely play together some time. My name's Bob.
#Person1#: Jane. Nice to meet you.
#Person2#: Me too. So, do you like the course?
#Person1#: Yes, it's fine. However, I personally think the fairways between the greens are a bit too long, especially for such a hot climate. Don't they have carts?
#Person2#: Well, they used to, but they got rid of them because of environmental concerns.
#Person1#: Oh, that's good. I guess the caddies were pleased.
#Person2#: Actually, in my opinion, the carts were better because you don't have to tip them.
#Person1#: Yes, but look at it this way, getting rid of the carts probably gives more work to local people, which is a good thing, right?
#Person2#: Possibly, but I still miss them! What bothers me is that the heat makes the caddies'life quite hard. One member's caddy fainted last week!
#Person1#: How awful, poor guy.
#Person2#: Right. Luckily it was on the eighteen hole, quite near the clubhouse, so he didn't have far to carry him.
#Person1#: Oh, my God, you're kidding me! He carried him back?
#Person2#: Yup.

Summary: Bob and Jane find out they have the same handicap. Bob says carts are better than caddies but Jane says caddies give more work to local people. Bob says one caddy fainted and the member had to carry him back.


#Person1#: Let's go to the cinema tonight, shall we?
#Person2#: Good idea. Is there a good movie on?
#Person1#: What about'Farewell My Concubine'? I've been wanting to see it for a long time.
#Person2#: All right. But it'll be difficult to buy tickets I suppose.
#Person1#: My brother has offered me two tickets for this evening.
#Person2#: What time does it begin?
#Person1#: At eight thirty.
#Person2#: I'll come for you at about eight.
#Person1#: OK, I'll be waiting.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to go to the cinema since #Person1#'s brother has got two tickets.


#Person1#: I really want to take a nap. I feel very sleepy today.
#Person2#: What's the matter? Didn't you get enough sleep last night?
#Person1#: I fell asleep very late. It was almost two o'clock in the morning when I finally fell asleep.
#Person2#: Are you worried about something? Why couldn't you sleep?
#Person1#: You know how it is when you're in a strange country. Everything is new, and you get tired and nervous sometimes. Then you worry about your family, about conditions back home, about your courses, about your money, about everything. I tried to fall asleep but I just had too much on my mind.
#Person2#: Well, take it easy. Things will look better tomorrow. Maybe you should try exercising or a hot bath to help you relax.
#Person1#: Anything is worth a try. But right now I really just want to find a quiet place to take a nap.

Summary: #Person1# fell asleep very late because #Person1# had too much on the mind. #Person2# gives #Person1# some suggestions but #Person1# only wants to take a nap right now.


#Person1#: Good evening, ma'am. Do you have a reservation?
#Person2#: No, I don't.
#Person1#: Awfully sorry, but there are no empty tables left now.
#Person2#: Well, can you tell me how long a wait do you think there will be?
#Person1#: About 15 minutes I think. Is that OK for you?
#Person2#: 15 minutes? That's too bad. I can't wait for so long.
#Person1#: I am sorry, ma'am.
#Person2#: Are you sure there aren't any empty tables at all? Can you please just check for me?
#Person1#: Well, I'll check again for you.
#Person2#: OK, I will wait for a moment.
#Person1#: I am so sorry for my mistake. There is a table available in the smoking section.
#Person2#: Good.
#Person1#: But it is in the smoking section. Do you mind, ma'am?
#Person2#: I think I have no choice now.
#Person1#: Please follow me then. I will show you to your table.
#Person2#: Thanks.
#Person1#: You're welcome. Your server will be with you right away to take your order. Sorry again for my carelessness.
#Person2#: Don't mention it.

Summary: #Person2# doesn't have a reservation. #Person1# tells #Person2# she needs to wait for 15 minutes. #Person2# can't wait so she asks #Person1# to check for her again. #Person1# finds her a table in the smoking section.


#Person1#: Hello Helen, you look bad. Is everything OK?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm fine, thanks. I'm just a bit tired this morning. That's all.
#Person1#: Why is that? Did you stay up last night?
#Person2#: Not at all, but I had this dream and it woke me up so I didn't get much sleep. I dreamt of walking through a forest at night. I couldn't see anything.
#Person1#: That sounds frightening.
#Person2#: In my dream, I saw white light behind some trees. It was a strange light because it seemed to get bigger and then smaller as if it was alive. At first I just stood where I was. But then the light seemed to move toward me and I could see something in it like the face of an old man. I tried to run away, but my feet felt very heavy, and I couldn't run fast enough. That's when I woke up I was shaking all over.

Summary: Helen's tired because she dreamed a bad dream so she didn't get enough sleep, then Helen describes the details of the dream to #Person1#.


#Person1#: Look! I bought these shoes only three weeks ago and there is a hole in them already.
#Person2#: If that happen to me, I ' ll take them back to the shop.
#Person1#: I did. But they said they won ' t change them.
#Person2#: That ' s terrible. But if they wouldn ' t change them, I know what I would do.

Summary: There's a hole in the shoes #Person1# bought three weeks ago, but the shop didn't agree to change them.


#Person1#: What are you doing this weekend?
#Person2#: My brother-in-law is having a small get-together at his house and he invited me.
#Person1#: Is it a family thing or just friends?
#Person2#: A bit of both. Some cousins, aunts and uncles will be there, but also some friends from the neighborhood.
#Person1#: Is your great uncle Rick going to be there? He is really funny.
#Person2#: Yeah he is going to be there with his step-son and his ex-wife.
#Person1#: You mean your sister?
#Person2#: No, Rick is actually my great uncle, so he is my grandmother's brother.
#Person1#: You lost me.
#Person2#: I'll explain later, let's go.

Summary: #Person2#'s brother-in-law invites #Person2# to attend a small get-together with #Person2#'s relatives and friends. #Person1# is confused about #Person2#'s family relationship.


#Person1#: Hi Linda, this is Todd.
#Person2#: Todd, good to hear from you!
#Person1#: I just wanted to tell you what a great time I had with you at the movies last week.
#Person2#: Me too, Todd! Thanks for suggesting that great movie.
#Person1#: I also enjoyed it and was wondering if you would like to go for a hike in the mountains with me on Saturday.
#Person2#: I would love to join you on a hike. Could I maybe bring a picnic lunch for us to eat on the trail?
#Person1#: Sure Linda, that's a great suggestion.
#Person2#: Fine then, what time are we going to leave?
#Person1#: I was thinking maybe 9 o'clock or so, so that we could get started before the heat gets too bad.
#Person2#: Nine would be perfect. I'll see you then!

Summary: Todd invites Linda to hike after having a great time with her at the movies. Linda accepts and they plan to leave at nine.


#Person1#: Hi, I was wondering if you have my test results in.
#Person2#: I didn't see anything out of the ordinary, but I want you to log onto our website for a printout of all of the details.
#Person1#: So, basically, I am OK?
#Person2#: If there were any major problems, I would always notify you by phone to come in.
#Person1#: What will I learn when I see the results on the website?
#Person2#: A description of each test is given on the site.
#Person1#: What will the numbers tell me?
#Person2#: The website will give you a normal range and then tell you what your results are.
#Person1#: Are all of my test results on that site?
#Person2#: Your entire test history is on the site. You can compare your results from other years.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# for #Person1#'s test results. #Person2# advises #Person1# to check online for a printout for all of the details and answers #Person1#'s related questions.


#Person1#: What's the problem, Nada? You look down in the dumps.
#Person2#: I don't know. My life is a big mess. Everything is so compliceted.
#Person1#: come on, nothing can be that bad.
#Person2#: but promise me, you'll keep it a secret.
#Person1#: ok, I promise. So what's troubling you so much?
#Person2#: I've fallen in love with my boss.
#Person1#: really? Is he married?
#Person2#: no, of course not. He is still single.
#Person1#: then what's your problem?
#Person2#: I try to keep it to myself. But there is a lot of gossip about us.
#Person1#: oh, I see. Office romance tends to be the subject of gossip.
#Person2#: worse still, he is trying to avoid me these days.
#Person1#: office romance is very tricky.
#Person2#: it gives me a lot of pressure and I feel depressed.
#Person1#: cheer up, Nada. You'll be fine.

Summary: Nada's depressed because she's fallen in love with her boss, which arouses lots of gossip about them in the office, and her boss's avoiding her. #Person1# cheers her up.


#Person1#: OK, dinner's ready, Owen.
#Person2#: This looks delicious. The chicken smells great.
#Person1#: How was your first day at the summer job?
#Person2#: Pretty good. The factory is kind of big and noisy, but the people seem nice. This lady, Gloria, showed me around and told me all the rules.
#Person1#: Is Gloria the boss?
#Person2#: No, a guy named Carson is the head. He wasn't there today.
#Person1#: Oh, Owen, you were saying that you haven't met the boss yet.
#Person2#: No, but I met his son, Mark. He will be the boss once he gets more experience. He spent last summer loading the delivery trucks. But this year he's going to be operating the machines with me.
#Person1#: Great.

Summary: #Person2# asks Owen how Owen's first day at the summer job was at dinner. Owen thinks the people are nice but he hasn't meet his boss.


#Person1#: May I have your order now?
#Person2#: We'd have your regular dinner. What courses are there, please?
#Person1#: The courses for our regular dinner are fish salad for appetizer, steak for main course and chocolate cake for dessert.
#Person2#: All right, we'll have it.
#Person1#: Today's mutton chop is very good. Would you like to have it as the main course?
#Person2#: That's a good idea. And as for dessert, we'll have apple pie. We'd like to have some coffee afterwards.
#Person1#: Good, here're your appetizers. Your dinners will be ready in five minutes.

Summary: #Person2# orders mutton chop, apple pie, and coffee for #Person2#'s meal instead of regular dinner under #Person1#'s recommendation.


#Person1#: So what do you think of my new dress?
#Person2#: I think it ' s great! I really like the color, and it goes really well with your eyes. I ' Ve actually been eyeing that dress at Maxine ' s for a while now, but I wasn ' t sure I could afford ninety-five dollars for a dress at the moment.
#Person1#: Um, ninety-five dollars?
#Person2#: Yes, that ' s the price they were advertising it at. I was hoping it might go on sale soon. Why, how much did you pay for it?
#Person1#: I bought it for one hundred and forty-five dollars at Helen ' s Boutique. I didn ' t know I could get it cheaper somewhere else.
#Person2#: Of course! Everything at Helen ' s is overpriced, and they sell things that you can find at almost every other clothing store! Why didn ' t you shop around?
#Person1#: I don ' t know, I just saw the dress and thought about how pretty it looks and how much I wanted it. I guess I was too impulsive.

Summary: #Person2# compliments #Person1#'s dress, but #Person2# finds #Person1# bought the dress overpriced at Helen's Boutique and should have shopped around. #Person1# thinks #Person1# is too impulsive to buy the dress.


#Person1#: Oh hello nice to see you again. Did you have a good holiday? I was thinking of ringing you to ask you about it?
#Person2#: Yes, it was lovely. We had to set off really early because the plane took off at 6:00 AM. But then we were on the beach in the sun by lunchtime.
#Person1#: Great and what did you do most days?
#Person2#: Well, we usually slept in. It was very nice not having to get up early and then we stayed up late at night. Going out to discos and nightclubs. During the day we usually lay on the beach or looked round the town.
#Person1#: And what about the food?
#Person2#: Well, we didn't usually have any breakfast. By the time we got downstairs at the hotel. They had cleared away all the breakfast things. We tried out different restaurants for lunch and most of them were very good. The fish was particularly nice. And we usually stayed in for dinner at the hotel.
#Person1#: So what did you like best?
#Person2#: I liked everything, the beaches, the weather, the food and the nightlife, the people. I'd like to go back again next year. So I'm saving up for it already. People book very early for that area, so I must fix it up right after the new year. If I carry on saving for a few months I'll have enough money.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# about #Person2#'s holiday. #Person2# enjoyed the leisure schedule and restaurants at the hotel. #Person2# likes everything there, and would like to go back next year.


#Person1#: Peter, do you want to learn to play the piano?
#Person2#: No, mom. Piano is for girls.
#Person1#: Well, there are many boys that can play the piano very well, like Jay Chou.
#Person2#: No way, mom. I don't like piano.
#Person1#: OK. But you have to promise me that you will study hard in your English class.
#Person2#: All right, all right. I understand.

Summary: Peter doesn't want to learn to play the piano and promises his mother to study English hard.


#Person1#: Mom, look! My first piggy bank and it still has money in it!
#Person2#: That is a blast from the past.
#Person1#: Remember when I used to beg you to break it so I could go buy ice cream?
#Person2#: Yes. You sure have come a long way in valuing your hard earned dollars.
#Person1#: Thanks for not giving in to my childhood tantrums, mom.
#Person2#: But what are you going to do with that pig?
#Person1#: I think I'm going to keep it as a monument to what I've learned about money.
#Person2#: Who knows, maybe one day he will sit on the desk of a top CEO in a major corporation!

Summary: #Person1# finds a childhood piggy bank and #Person1#'s mother thinks #Person1# has learned valuing earnings, so #Person1# decides to souvenir it.


#Person1#: Mr. Brown, I'd like to talk with you about something that is getting to be a problem. I'd like, if possible, to see it settled at this meeting.
#Person2#: What is it, Mrs. Wang?
#Person1#: It's about the quality of 300 cartons of dried mushrooms. They reached us two weeks ago, and were immediately examined after they arrived. To our astonishment, about 20 % of them were moldy and in many cartons there were even small brownish bugs crawling in and out of the half eaten mushrooms. We can't accept them in this state. They are unfit for human consumption. And the Medical Officer of Health has issued a Stop Notice on them.
#Person2#: Is that so? So far we haven't had any complaint of this kind. Our mushrooms have enjoyed a good reputation for their superior quality for years. We are really at a loss to understand why your lot was found moldy and wormeaten. Have you any evidence?
#Person1#: Certainly. Here's a survey report by a well-known lab in London, whose testimony is absolutely reliable.
#Person2#: Though everything may be as you say, there are many factors involved. What's more, your surveyors have not mentioned any cause for the damage.
#Person1#: The mushrooms were packed in small one pound plastic bags, sixty of these bags to a carton. It is stated on the surveyor? s report that external conditions of goods at the time of survey are all sound and intact. So it is obvious the cause of the damage is that the mushrooms were not completely dried before packing.
#Person2#: As you know, before shipment, the Commodity InspectionBureau inspected the goods in question. They concluded that the goods were well dehydrated from fresh and choice material and up to standard for export.
#Person1#: I think the Inspection Bureau at your end, when effecting inspection, only selected a few package at random these happened to be up to the standard. The part that was not dried properly, most probably, escaped their attention. As the amount in question is only 20 % of the whole shipment, I think it is only reasonable that you should compensate us for the loss.
#Person2#: The inspection certificate, which is based on a random selection of 20 % of the consignment as we've agreed on beforehand, is considered final and binding upon both parties. We do not accept any claims for compensation for loss incurred in transit, because you bought the goods F. O. B. Houston and on shipping quality, not on landed quality. Your claim, in our opinion, should be referred to the insurance company, as the mishap occurred after shipment.
#Person1#: We've already got in touch with the underwriter. But they have refused to accept any liability. They attributed the accident to the effects of dampness during the long sea voyage.
#Person2#: That's a matter over which we could exercise no control, then. I'm afraid I have to insist that you approach the insurance company for settlement, that is, if you have covered this risk in your coverage.
#Person1#: To my regret, we failed to cover contamination. This is an unfortunate oversight on our part and a lesson to us.
#Person2#: Otherwise the insurance company would no doubt have entertained your case.
#Person1#: Well, live and learn. It seems we'll have to waive the claim.

Summary: Mrs.Wang tells Mr. Brown 20% of the dried mushrooms offered by him were moldy and some of them were even worm-eaten. Wang's surveyor says it's because some of the mushrooms were not dried enough before packing, so Wang wants Brown to compensate for the loss, while Brown refuses since Wang bought the goods F. O. B. Houston and on shipping quality, not on landed quality. Brown insists that Wang approach the insurance company, but Wang failed to cover contamination in the coverage, which is a lesson to her.


#Person1#: You'Ve been a sales manager for three years. How do you like the job?
#Person2#: I like it very much.
#Person1#: If I may ask, are you happy with your salary?
#Person2#: No, I don't mind at all. I receive 3, 000 RMB a month, after tax.
#Person1#: Is there a bonus system or any other incentive plan in place?
#Person2#: I'm afraid there isn't. My boss only pays lip service.
#Person1#: What is your salary expectation for this position?
#Person2#: My expectation is in the 3800 to 4500 RMB range. That's the take-home pay.

Summary: #Person2#'s been a sales manager for three years with a monthly salary of 3000 RMB but #Person2#'s expectation is 3800-4500.


#Person1#: Good morning, Jason. How did you sleep?
#Person2#: Pretty well, thanks. Still feeling the effects of jet lag a bit, but last night I got at lease six hours of rest.
#Person1#: Great! So, are you ready for a full day of shopping?
#Person2#: Yep. Let's do it. I'm pretty excited!
#Person1#: I know a place that should be perfect. It's called the China Friendship Shopping Center and it's pretty much like an American mall - except with more variety. You can even buy a live chicken there if you want.
#Person2#: Live chicken? Thanks, but no thanks. So. . . . tell me about bargaining. How can I do it like a local?
#Person1#: Well. I'll be honest and say you'll never be as good at bargaining as a local person. You're a foreigner and the sellers can see that. But. . . if you're smart, you can get bargains that are not too far away from the local price.
#Person2#: Cool! Teach me!
#Person1#: For starters, you want to do a lot of scouting first. You've got to know what things cost.
#Person2#: Someone told me to go to a convenience store and see how much a soft drink or a tube of toothpaste costs. The idea is that by comparing the prices of those items, you can figure out the relative prices of everything else.
#Person1#: That could be helpful. But when you go into a shopping center. . . prices become very flexible. You have to be able to read the market.

Summary: Jason still feels the effects of jet lag but Jason tells #Person1# that he is ready for a full day of shopping. #Person1#'ll take Jason to the China Friendship Shopping Center. #Person1# teaches Jason the tricks about bargaining as a foreigner.


#Person1#: What's your schedule like this year?
#Person2#: Pretty busy. I have to pick up a lot of credits this year.
#Person1#: What's your major?
#Person2#: I'm majoring in French literature.
#Person1#: Oh, don't you have to take that class on 18th century poetry? It's really difficult. I hear the students in that class have to write a paper 100 pages long.
#Person2#: That's right. We got the assignment last week.
#Person1#: When is it due?
#Person2#: Next Monday!
#Person1#: Remind me never to sign up for that course!

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# is busy and #Person2# takes the class that has a long paper to write.


#Person1#: How time flies!
#Person2#: Bill and Betty have already grown up.
#Person1#: I can still remember our first date.
#Person2#: Look at that big tree over there.
#Person1#: Yeah, oh my god! It's still there. We have our first date right on there.
#Person2#: Do you know that I fell in love with you at the first sight then?
#Person1#: You seemed to be dull at that time.
#Person2#: But you agreed to go out with me at last.
#Person1#: ( Smile ) I can't believe this for it's been 20 years since we got married.
#Person2#: So do you feel happy now?
#Person1#: I couldn't have been any happier!
#Person2#: Of course, we are the happiest family in the world.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are recalling the past. They still feel happy as a family after getting married for 20 years.


#Person1#: Good morning. Mrs. Smith.
#Person2#: Good morning! Can you help me, please? I'm looking for some books for my mother.
#Person1#: Well, what kind of books does she like?
#Person2#: She's very fond of detective stories?
#Person1#: I see. Has she read any detective stories?
#Person2#: Oh, yes!
#Person1#: Do you know if she's read this one?
#Person2#: I'm not sure, but she probably won't remember if she has! She's very forgertful!
#Person1#: Ah! She has a bad memory. How old is she?
#Person2#: She's eighty-seven.
#Person1#: I suggest you take this book. It's very exciting.
#Person2#: Thank you. That's a good idea. she likes excting books. Can you suggest another one?

Summary: Mrs. Smith's looking for some books for her mother who has a bad memory and likes detective stories. #Person1# suggests one book and Mrs. Smith thinks it's good.


#Person1#: David, where did you get so many old books?
#Person2#: Some graduates were selling their used books. They were really cheap, so I bought some.
#Person1#: But aren't you leaving China in 2 weeks? How can you finish reading so many books?
#Person2#: I'll take them back to America. I'll continue to improve my Chinese, so they'll be very helpful.
#Person1#: When will you come to China again?
#Person2#: I don't know, maybe several years later or maybe next year, that all depends.
#Person1#: Depends on what?
#Person2#: It depends on whether my mom recover or not. If she is still ill. I cannot leave her to work in China.

Summary: David bought some old books and will take them back to America. He tells #Person1# whether he comes to China depends on his mom's health condition.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir. May I help you?
#Person2#: Good morning. I'd like to pay my bill.
#Person1#: OK. In cash or by credit?
#Person2#: In cash. How much is the total charge?
#Person1#: Five hundred and thirty yuan altogether including charges for service.
#Person2#: Here you are. Thanks for your wonderful service.
#Person1#: Not at all. Welcome again.

Summary: #Person2# pays his bill in cash with #Person1#'s assistance.


#Person1#: How did you like the dishes, Sir?
#Person2#: Delicious. Everything was excellent here. Thank you!
#Person1#: Do you want some coffee, tea, sir?
#Person2#: No. thanks, I'm fine. Ah, just have the bill, please. How much is your service charge?
#Person1#: Fifteen percent and it's included in your bill. Thank you very much, sir. We look forward to seeing you again.
#Person2#: Sure, good night.

Summary: #Person2# enjoys the meal and #Person1# tells him the service charge is 15%.


#Person1#: I had a big argument with david yesterday. I hope he ' s not still mad at me.
#Person2#: What did you argue about?
#Person1#: He borrowed some money from me and I needed it back. He said he didn ' t have the money yet.
#Person2#: Well, he should pay you back. It ' s only fair.
#Person1#: Yes, but I got angry with him too quickly. He probably thought that I mistrusted him. I shouldn ' t have got angry.
#Person2#: Did you lend him a lot of money?
#Person1#: Not much. I had to pay an unexpected bill, so I needed the money back.
#Person2#: Well, talk to him about it next time you see him. He probably feels as bad about it as you do. Close friends sometimes have disagreements. It ' s nothing unusual. Neither of you said anything really nasty, did you?
#Person1#: No, we didn ' t. I guess you ' re right. We should patch things up.
#Person2#: Of course you should. You wouldn ' t want a silly argument to ruin a long friendship, would you?

Summary: #Person1# has a big argument with David because #Person1# wanted the money back and got angry too quickly. #Person2# suggests talking to David to protect the friendship.


#Person1#: Mark was looking for you this morning. He wanted to know if you had decided when to go to the museum. And he seemed quite eager to meet you.
#Person2#: My goodness, I don't know how many times he's talked about it. When did he become such a nagger?

Summary: #Person1# tells Mark was eager to meet #Person2#. #Person2# thinks Mark is a nagger.


#Person1#: Hello, I really appreciate the opportunity to interview for this position.
#Person2#: I was wondering if you like team projects, or projects that you work on alone.
#Person1#: I like to work on group projects that value and need each individual ' s contributions.
#Person2#: Are you most interested in a good steady job with benefits or one that will allow you to quickly advance?
#Person1#: I have children so a steady job is important but I would like a chance to advance.
#Person2#: How would you feel about relocating to another state?
#Person1#: I could not relocate in the next year, but might be open to it in the future.
#Person2#: Do you know how much this job offers per year?
#Person1#: A minimum of 75, 000 per year.
#Person2#: OK, well, that ' s all I need to know for now. If something comes up, we ' ll be contacting you.

Summary: #Person2# is interviewing #Person1#. #Person1# likes team projects, would like a chance to advance, could not relocate in the next year, and knows how much the job offers per year.


#Person1#: Operator, can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes. I'd like to make a collect call. My number is 7683384.
#Person1#: And the number you're dialing?
#Person2#: That's 7638558. Oh, no, I'm sorry, I forgot it's just changed. It's now 7643388.
#Person1#: Please hold the line, caller.

Summary: #Person2# asks the operator to make a collect call.


#Person1#: Welcome to our hotel's indoor swimming pool. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: You see this is the first time for me to use the swimming pool. I've got no idea about the water temperature of the pool. I'm afraid it might be a little cold.
#Person1#: You don't need to worry about that. madam. We have a warm massage pool, and the temperature is 36  C.
#Person2#: I see. But I'm not a good swimmer. Can you tell me how deep the pool is?
#Person1#: Certainly, madam. The deepest place is two meters but you can swim in the shallow area, which is only l. 4 meter in depth. We have separate locker rooms over there and they are free of charge.
#Person2#: That's great! Can you give me the key to the locker? I can't wait to have a try.

Summary: #Person1# introduces the warm massage pool, including its water temperature, depth, and locker rooms. #Person2# can't wait to have a try.


#Person1#: Anna just emailed to say that the managers' meeting is put off till next Monday. Will you have everything ready by then, Sabrina? Hey, Sabrina, what's wrong?
#Person2#: I'm so worried. I haven't heard from my sister for two weeks.
#Person1#: How often do you call each other?
#Person2#: Normally at least once a week, but she's now a volunteer teacher at a mountain village in Africa. I can only write her.
#Person1#: The mail can be really slow sometimes. I'm sure you'll hear from her soon.
#Person2#: I hope so.
#Person1#: You know the saying, 'no news is good news.' If something were wrong someone would have called you.
#Person2#: Maybe you're right. Thanks, Jason.

Summary: Sabrina tells Jason that she is worried about her sister because she hasn't heard from her for two weeks. Jasoncomforts her.


#Person1#: I just received a beautiful Mother's Day gift from our son.
#Person2#: What did he give you this year?
#Person1#: He drew a picture and wrote I love you on it, it was really moving. It's hard to believe he's already 9 years old now. Do you want to have a look at the picture?
#Person2#: Oh yes, please.
#Person1#: Here, isn't he good at drawing?
#Person2#: That's amazing. I really didn't know he control so well. He really has a gift for it.
#Person1#: What do you think about having him attended drawing class?
#Person2#: That's a really good idea.
#Person1#: Do you know any good teachers who control well?
#Person2#: You know, my friend David's sister Sarah is an art teacher. Naturally, she draws pictures for children's books. I'll call and find out if Jim can join her class.
#Person1#: OK.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2#'s son drew a moving picture for #Person1#. They think he's talented in drawing and want to send him to drawing class.


#Person1#: Will you be voting?
#Person2#: Yes. Will you?
#Person1#: I already have.
#Person2#: How did you do that?
#Person1#: I mailed in an absentee ballot.
#Person2#: Why is that?
#Person1#: I can't vote on Tuesday.
#Person2#: What's the reason for that?
#Person1#: I have to go to work.
#Person2#: You can just go to work after you vote.
#Person1#: I need to take care of some business that morning.
#Person2#: I get it now.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# mailed in an absentee ballot as #Person1# can't vote on Tuesday.


#Person1#: I think the government needs a radical plan to improve things. The government just talks, but in the long run, nothing is done to improve the economy.
#Person2#: That's right. They always talk about a need for new, progressive tactics, but they haven't done anything to stimulate new jobs.
#Person1#: Well, income taxes were decreased last year in hope to give the economy a boost, but I think it's backfired. The immediate effect of the tax reduction was to cause inflation to rise.
#Person2#: The worst part is that the inflation hurts the poor more than the rich. It also leads to more unemployment in the long run. I don't know what a good solution would be to make the economy more vibrant again. . .
#Person1#: I have a good solution. . . We need some new blood! We should get rid of this president and boat in some new leaders!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are complaining about the government's incompetence in improving the economy. #Person1# thinks they need new leaders.


#Person1#: Hi, Jane. Come in.
#Person2#: Uh, yeah, I stopped by to see if you were still looking for a roommate to share your house.
#Person1#: Yeah, I sure am. Let me show you the place. Uh, here's the living room.
#Person2#: Oh. It looks like you could use a new carpet.., and those stains?
#Person1#: Well. I've had a few problems with some former roommates. I know it needs to be cleaned, but I just don't have the money to do it right now.
#Person2#: Oh. And what about the kitchen?
#Person1#: Right this way. Look. It's completely furnished with all the latest appliances, except...
#Person2#: What?
#Person1#: Well, the refrigerator door is broken.., a little bit.., and it won't shut all the way. It needs fixing, but don't worry. I've just pushed a box against it to keep it shut.
#Person2#: Hmm. Great.
#Person1#: Ah. It isn't that bad.
#Person2#: Well, how about the bathroom?
#Person1#: Well...
#Person2#: Hey, I think I've seen enough. I can't believe you've survived under these conditions.
#Person1#: So what do you think? You really can't beat a place like this for $ 450 month. So it has its problems, but we can fix those.
#Person2#: Uh, no, thank you. I think I've seen enough.

Summary: Jane comes to see if #Person1# is still looking for a roommate to share #Person1#'s house. #Person1# shows her around the house and she is not satisfied with the bad conditions.


#Person1#: Hi, what are you doing?
#Person2#: I'm cleaning the house.
#Person1#: Can you go to the movies with me this afternoon?
#Person2#: I don't think so. Right now I'm sweeping the floor. Then I have to wash the floors and wash and iron all the clothes.
#Person1#: Aren't your sister and your mother helping you?
#Person2#: No, they usually help, but today my sister is playing tennis and my mother's writing.
#Person1#: That's too bad. Asian Sun is playing at the theatre. They say it's good. And I want to go to that new Chinese restaurant.
#Person2#: Well, you could come over later this afternoon and watch TV with me.
#Person1#: I have a good idea. Why don't I come over and help you with your work?
#Person2#: Would you?
#Person1#: Sure. Why not? I'll come over in half an hour.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to go to the movies but #Person2# needs to clean the house. Then #Person1# decides to help #Person2#.


#Person1#: Has my package arrived?
#Person2#: I'm not sure. What does it look like?
#Person1#: It's quite a delicate piece of equipment, so I hope it was well-packed. It's oblong-shaped, about 50 cm long. It's made of metal.
#Person2#: There's a large wooden crate in the corner which I haven't unpacked yet. It might be in there.

Summary: #Person1# inquires about #Person1#'s package. #Person2# tells #Person1# to find it in a large wooden crate in the corner.


#Person1#: Oh, hey, Keri! You cook, right! You're a pretty good cook.
#Person2#: I'm OK.
#Person1#: I want to make an omelet, so actually this is really silly, I've never made one before. How do you make an omelet?
#Person2#: Well, I can teach you how I make them, which is the same way my father and grandmother make them, which is a little special.
#Person1#: OK. Yeah! Yeah!
#Person2#: First you take some eggs and crack them in a bowl, and whisk them up, quite, so they're quite high and fluffy, and in a hot pan, and you need a pan that's that's kind of small, that the sides go up at an angle. You put some oil and heat it up, so it's quite hot, and then you take your whipped up eggs, or whisked up eggs, and pour them into the pan, and as it's cooking, if you take a spatula, and push the bottom layer of the egg, to the side, to the sides, and then to the middle, so the uncooked egg gets to the bottom of the pan.
#Person1#: Oh, OK. Wow!
#Person2#: OK. And keep doing that until most of the egg is cooked so you should have a nice thick omelet and then flip it over, you'll only have to cook that side lightly. Put your fillings on the top and fold it over and let it sit just long enough to melt the cheese.
#Person1#: Wow. That sounds really good.

Summary: Keri teaches #Person1# how to make an omelet which is a little special in detail.


#Person1#: hello, do you remember me? I bought some vases from you yesterday.
#Person2#: yes, you sent them to New York, right?
#Person1#: that's right. I thought I'd come back to buy some more souvenirs.
#Person2#: what did you in mind?
#Person1#: well, first, I'd like to buy a few postcards. My sister used to always send a postcard to herself whenever she went anywhere. I want to do that, too.
#Person2#: we have plenty of postcards to choose from here. The same designs can be found on these posters.
#Person1#: posters are difficult to travel with. I think I'll just buy the postcards. I heard that you might also have some of the masks that are made in Venice.
#Person2#: yes, we do. They're on the wall behind you.
#Person1#: how much do they cost?
#Person2#: the prices are clearly marked on the back of each mask. Would you like me to get one down for you to look at?
#Person1#: yes, I think I'd like the green mask in the middle.
#Person2#: here you go.
#Person1#: I'll take it, I'd also like to buy some chocolate.
#Person2#: are you looking for some homemade chocolate as a gift.
#Person1#: yes, it's my girlfriend's birthday today and she loves chocolate.
#Person2#: we've got plenty to choose from here.
#Person1#: they look delicious. I think she'll be pleased.

Summary: #Person1# comes to the store where #Person1# bought some vases yesterday to buy some more souvenirs. With #Person2#'s help, #Person1# purchases some postcards, a green mask, and some chocolate for #Person1#'s girlfriend.


#Person1#: We're having a lovely time,Dad.
#Person2#: I'm sure there's a lot to do.
#Person1#: There is! We've been for a walk in Central Park. It's so big! Everything here is big. And we've climbed the Empire State Building. The view was fantastic. We haven't been to Greenwich Village yet, and we haven't been to Chinatown, either. We're going to do that tomorrow.
#Person2#: Have you seen the Statue of Liberty yet?
#Person1#: Oh, yes, we have. We've just had a helicopter out of the city, and we flew really close to it.
#Person2#: What about a show? Have you seen a show on Broadway yet?
#Person1#: No, we haven't. We're going to see one on our last night here, but we haven't decided what to see yet.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person2#'s dad about #Person2#'s visit to Central Park, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. #Person2# is also going to Greenwich Village, Chinatown and Broadway.


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

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about wedding customs including the place to hold the ceremony and reception, traditions in different countries, and the bridal bouquet.


#Person1#: Please sit down. Let's see. You're Mr. Brown, is that right?
#Person2#: Right. I'll graduate from college next June.
#Person1#: Have you ever done any work in this field?
#Person2#: No, never. We did some practice work in class.
#Person1#: You seem to be doing well at college. What kind of pay do you hope to get?
#Person2#: From what I've read, it seems that the pay at the beginning would, be around $12,000 a year.
#Person1#: Here we would start at $10,500 for the first year of training. Then you would get $15,000. After that it would depend on how well you work.
#Person2#: That sounds fair enough. What about other things, like vacation?
#Person1#: Those are all explained in this paper. You can take it along and look at it at home.
#Person2#: Do you really think I can get a job here? I really hope that I can work here. But I guess I'll just have to go home and wait.
#Person1#: Well, I'm talking to three people today and four tomorrow. The company will be hiring two people. You'll hear sometime next month. Good luck and thanks for coming today.

Summary: #Person1# interviews Mr.Brown who'll graduate from college next June. #Person1# asks about his work experience and tells him the benefits of the job. Mr.Brown is anxious about getting the job.


#Person1#: Hi, I'd like a single room.
#Person2#: Do you have a reservation?
#Person1#: No, I'm afraid not.
#Person2#: Let me check if we have any vacancies. . . You're in luck. We have one single room available.
#Person1#: How much is it?
#Person2#: $ 60 a night. No charge for local calls on the phone or for the TV, unless you decide to watch the pay-per-view channels.
#Person1#: Okay, I'll take it.
#Person2#: Here's your key. Check out time is 12 noon. If you want to stay until 6 p. m. , it's another half day. After that you have to pay for another night.
#Person1#: Okay. When is your restaurant open?
#Person2#: It's open from 6:30 a. m. to 10 p. m. every day.
#Person1#: Okay, thank you. Which way to the room?
#Person2#: It's that way, on the second floor.
#Person1#: Thanks.

Summary: #Person1# wants a single room and #Person2#, the hotel receptionist, tells #Person1# the charge of the room and when is the restaurant open.


#Person1#: Hi, Nancy. How are you doing?
#Person2#: Hi, Tom. Want a cup of coffee?
#Person1#: Not right now. I've got to get another car and my old one is blown up.
#Person2#: Oh, hey, did you look in the classified ads?
#Person1#: You mean used car?
#Person2#: No, Ah. . . single sellers.
#Person1#: Well, yeah, but I'd be getting somebody else's problem.
#Person2#: Uh huh. How about a used car? They've got good ones now.
#Person1#: It's the same kind of deal though, you know, you never know what you're going to get.
#Person2#: Oh, hey, how about a new car? They've got easy loans now. You'd feel so good driving a new car.
#Person1#: Let's look at them all. Have you got a paper there?

Summary: Tom tells Nancy about Tom's broken car. Tom decides to buy a new car instead of a single seller or used car.


#Person1#: You're so involved. What are you reading?
#Person2#: You know Snoopy? That lovely dog always tells us the truth of life in his simple words.
#Person1#: I like the Snoopy Series 2. I thought you wouldn't like cartoons. Don't you feel them too childish?
#Person2#: Not at all. Cartoons are fun not only for kids, but also for adults.
#Person1#: I quite agree. We adults need simple and interesting things in our stressful lives.
#Person2#: I like cartoon movies, too. Many of them are great works.
#Person1#: Me too. What's your favorite one?
#Person2#: Ice Age, it's fantastic.
#Person1#: Tell me something about the movie, I've heard about it, but I've never seen it.
#Person2#: Oh really? It's a rather old movie coming out around 2003. It's so classical that you shouldn't have missed it, it's a story about what happens to a group of animals at the end of the Ice Age. The pictures are beautiful and the whole movie is very imaginative.
#Person1#: Are there just animals? No humans?
#Person2#: There are only a few humans, not as hateful as they are in most cartoon movies.
#Person1#: Eh, I cannot wait to see it.
#Person2#: I have a DVD of this film. I'll bring it to you tomorrow.
#Person1#: Thank you very much.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# both think the cartoon is not only good for kids but also for adults. #Person1# is quite interested in #Person2#'s favorite movie called Ice Age and wants to borrow the DVD from #Person2#.


#Person1#: Do you know a bus that I can take from Altadena to downtown LA?
#Person2#: I believe you can take the 486.
#Person1#: Will that bus really take me to LA?
#Person2#: It sure will.
#Person1#: Is it a very long ride?
#Person2#: It's a forty-five minute to an hour ride.
#Person1#: Really?
#Person2#: It doesn't take long at all
#Person1#: Do a lot of people ride that bus?
#Person2#: More people start getting on around LA.
#Person1#: Wow, thanks a lot.
#Person2#: Don't mention it.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person1# can take the 486 bus from Altadena to downtown LA and it takes around an hour.


#Person1#: Merry Christmas, Lily.
#Person2#: The same to you, Joey.
#Person1#: This is your first Christmas in the US. Here is the gift for you.
#Person2#: It's very thoughtful of you. Wow, it is so beautiful. Could you tell me how American people celebrate Christmas?
#Person1#: Ok. People decorate their houses, place a Christmas tree in the room and maybe sing a Christmas carol together.

Summary: Lily and Joey wish each other a merry Christmas. Joey tells Lily how American people celebrate Christmas.


#Person1#: You're really fit, Paul. Do you exercise very much?
#Person2#: Well, I almost always get up very early, and I lift weights for an hour.
#Person1#: You're kidding!
#Person2#: No. And then I often go Rollerblading.
#Person1#: Wow! How often do you exercise like that?
#Person2#: About five times a week. What about you?
#Person1#: Oh, I hardly ever exercise. I usually just watch TV in my free time. I guess I'm a real couch potato!

Summary: Paul is fit because he exercises very often while #Person1# hardly ever exercises.


#Person1#: Excuse me, can you tell me where I can go fishing?
#Person2#: I like fishing too. I usually fish near the lake.
#Person1#: I want to go fishing today, but I have left my rod and fishing line at home.
#Person2#: What a shame.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# usually fishes near a lake. #Person1# wants to go fishing but has left the equipment at home.


#Person1#: Oh, Mrs. Smith. Can I take the test now? I just ..., oh.
#Person2#: Excuse me? What do you mean? The test ended 10 minutes ago, and you weren't there to take it. Sorry.
#Person1#: Oh, Mrs. Smith. Come on. Come on. That's not fair.
#Person2#: What do you mean it's not fair. Everyone else was there. So, why weren't you in class?
#Person1#: Uh, my bus didn't come this morning on time. That's why.
#Person2#: Um. Are you sure? Your friend, Tony, made it to class, and he said you were still in bed an hour ago.
#Person1#: Uhh, yeah, well, that might be true, but I really need to take the test.
#Person2#: Wait. Don't you realize that you just lied to me?
#Person1#: Uh, well, listen. Mrs. Smith. Listen. My alarm didn't go off this morning, so it's not my fault I came late.
#Person2#: So, you're blaming your alarm clock again? It's still your responsibility to be here. Wasn't that your excuse the last two times you missed class?
#Person1#: But Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Smith.
#Person2#: Listen. You know the policy of our program. If you miss a test for an unexcused reason ... and a lie is definitely unexcused, then you get a zero on the test. There are no exceptions.
#Person1#: Mrs. Smith. Why don't you want to help me? You never help me. I mean I really need to pass this class.
#Person2#: No, no. no. Listen to yourself. You're playing what we call the victim. You made some bad choices, and now you have to accept the consequences. Remember: When you point your finger at someone else, like me in this case, three fingers are pointing back at you.
#Person1#: But Mrs. Smith. I lose my scholarship if I do poorly in the class; my parents will be really disappointed in me.
#Person2#: I'm really sorry, but that's not my problem. [Oh, Mrs. Smith!] I can't help you with that. Don't try to shift the blame here. [Mrs. Smith!] You painted yourself into a corner. You need to be accountable for your own actions instead of trying to weasel out of your responsibility. While you aren't doing well in my class though, I must say I almost have to give you an A grade for trying to dodge the outcome of your bad choices.
#Person1#: Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Smith.
#Person2#: Listen. You are learning one thing.
#Person1#: What?
#Person2#: My name.
#Person1#: Agh.

Summary: #Person1# wants to take a test but the test has ended. #Person1# explains the bus didn't come on time, but Mrs. Smith realizes it's a lie. Then #Person1# blames the alarm clock. Mrs. Smith asks #Person1# to accept the consequences because #Person1# made some bad choices. Mrs. Smith thinks #Person1# should not shift the blame here and weasel out of responsibility.


#Person1#: Do you think you can take me to the Grand Hotel in 30 minutes?
#Person2#: It depends. If the traffic isn't too heavy... Anyhow, I'll try my best. You've got enough time.
#Person1#: How much should I pay?
#Person2#: $12.75, please.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot. Here's $15. Give me $1.00 back, please.

Summary: #Person2# tries the best to take #Person1# to the Grand Hotel.


#Person1#: Hi, John! How was your vacation?
#Person2#: We went to Malaysia and Thailand.
#Person1#: That must have been wonderful. Do anything interesting?
#Person2#: Well. We went bungee jumping when we were in Malaysia.
#Person1#: Wow, isn't that dangerous?
#Person2#: A little, but the rush was worth it.
#Person1#: Tell me about it.
#Person2#: We jumped off a bridge and fell 500 feet before the bungee cord caught us.
#Person1#: 500 feet! I would never be able to do that.
#Person2#: Yeah, It was scary but exhilarating.

Summary: John tells #Person2# they went to Malaysia and Thailand for vacation. They went bungee jumping in Malaysia.


#Person1#: The volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Saint Helens certainly caused a lot of damage, didn't it?
#Person2#: It did, but not as much as experts have predicted. It seems to have had a beneficial effect as well.
#Person1#: Really? But were crop losses great?
#Person2#: Yes, However, since the weather following the eruption was unexpectedly good, some crop yields remained steady or even increased beyond normal expectancy levels.
#Person1#: I'm glad to hear that. But what was the beneficial effect you mentioned?
#Person2#: A mass destruction of various insect populations.
#Person1#: How could the ash kill insects without effecting people too?
#Person2#: It's highly abrasive and quickly wears away the outer wax layer, protecting insects bodies. Removal of that layer causes the insects to lose body moisture by evaporation, the result is usually lethal.
#Person1#: How about that? Sounds like an effective yet natural insecticide.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that the volcanic ash didn't cause much damage. Instead, it makes crop yields remain steady or increase and destroys various insect populations.


#Person1#: Good afternoon, Peace Hotel, what can I do for you?
#Person2#: I have made a reservation for this Sunday. My name is Bobby
#Person1#: Yes, that's right. Your room is a single one with a bath.
#Person2#: I am calling to cancel it now. I can't go to your city this week.
#Person1#: Fine, we will cancel it.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: Bobby calls Peace Hotel to cancel his reservation for this Sunday.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir, where are you going?
#Person2#: I'm going to England by flight B. E. 987.
#Person1#: When is your flight?
#Person2#: 10:00 a. m. When am I supposed to check in?
#Person1#: We are checking in. May I have your ticket? And your health certificate and your luggage, please.
#Person2#: Here you are.
#Person1#: Are you keeping this small bag as carry-on luggage, sir?
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: You must weigh that as well.
#Person2#: All right.
#Person1#: Your luggage is two pounds over, I am afraid there'll be an excess luggage charge, sir.
#Person2#: How much must I pay?
#Person1#: It's 10 yuan.
#Person2#: Here you are.
#Person1#: This is your luggage check, which you must show when you disembark at your destination, and here is your boarding pass and your ticket.
#Person2#: Thanks.
#Person1#: Now please wait until your flight is called. There are about twenty-five minutes to go.
#Person2#: I'm a little nervous. I have never flown before.
#Person1#: There is nothing at all to worry about. Once you're in the air, it's just like sitting in your own living room. It's going to be a very pleasant flight.

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# to check in and tells #Person2# that he needs to pay for an excess luggage charge. #Person1# then gives #Person2# his luggage check, boarding pass and ticket. #Person2# is nervous about his first flight and #Person1# comforts #Person2#.


#Person1#: Good morning, Miss Li.
#Person2#: Morning, Mike.
#Person1#: I'm sorry that I was absent yesterday.
#Person2#: I've already got your certificate for sick leave. How do you feel today?
#Person1#: I feel much better now.
#Person2#: Have you received the reading material handed out yesterday?
#Person1#: I've already got it. Thanks.
#Person2#: I will explain it in detail in the next class, could you preview it?
#Person1#: I will.

Summary: Mike was absent for sickness. Miss Li asks him to preview the reading material.


#Person1#: Good morning, Mrs. Adams. How are you today?
#Person2#: Oh, not very well. I've caught a bad cold.
#Person1#: Have you got a temperature?
#Person2#: Yes, I've got a fever.
#Person1#: Are you coughing?
#Person2#: Yes, especially at night. It's quite bad then. And 1 can't go to sleep.
#Person1#: Oh, I see. I can understand that. Um, I think you've got the flu. I suggest you should not go to work, and take this medicine once every four hours. What else should I do? Drink more water and have a good rest. OK. Thank you. Good bye! Good bye!

Summary: Mrs. Adams is not feeling well. #Person1# asks for some information and gives her a prescription.


#Person1#: Ah! No! Damn it!
#Person2#: It's a blackout. Now I can't see Seinfeld.
#Person1#: So what? I just lost one hour's worth of work.
#Person2#: Really? How could you do that? Don't you save every couple minutes?
#Person1#: No, I didn't save this time. Damn it! And I'm sick of writing this paper. Now I have to write it all over again too.
#Person2#: I've had that problem too many times. So I learned to save. When I'm writing something, I save every three sentences or so. I don't want to lose anything.
#Person1#: I hate computers. Sometimes I think they cause more trouble than they're worth.
#Person2#: What are we going to do now?
#Person1#: I don't know. I feel like going out.
#Person2#: I wonder how much of the city is down.
#Person1#: It doesn't matter. I still can go out and buy a beer.
#Person2#: Maybe. But if there's a blackout, probably the pubs are closed. And besides, I know you have a political science exam tomorrow. I thought you had a lot of reading to do.
#Person1#: Yes, that's true. Damn! I just lost half my paper, and now I can't even do my homework. This is a bad time for this to happen.
#Person2#: I have a flashlight in my closet. If you want to use that to read, you can.
#Person1#: Thanks. I think I will try. Where are you going?
#Person2#: I like your idea of getting a beer. I think I'll go out myself.
#Person1#: Maybe we can trade. Why don't you stay here and read for my exam, and I'll go drink beer?
#Person2#: No, it just won't work. If I read for your exam, you won't know the answers tomorrow. I will.
#Person1#: So? You can go to the class for me. Just write my name on the exam book and take the exam. Why not?
#Person2#: How many students are in the class?
#Person1#: About fourteen.
#Person2#: So it won't work, old buddy. They'll see that I'm not you. Sorry.
#Person1#: Damn!

Summary: #Person1# lost one hour's worth of work because of a blackout, so #Person1# has to write it all over again. #Person1# also has a political science exam tomorrow. #Person2# is going to get a beer. #Person1# wants #Person2# to read for #Person1#'s exam so that #Person2# can take the exam for #Person1#. #Person2# refuses because there are only fourteen people in the class.


#Person1#: Hello Madam, what can I do for you?
#Person2#: My feet hurt. I think I need some new shoes.
#Person1#: What size do you wear?
#Person2#: The last time I bought new shoes was about a year ago and at that time I was a 7.
#Person1#: Well. Once you get to be in your 20s your feet stop growing, so you're probably still a 7. But let's measure them just in case.
#Person2#: OK. So what does it say?
#Person1#: Well, it looks like urinate. No wonder your feet have been hurting you. You were been wearing shoes that are one size small.

Summary: #Person2#'s feet hurt so she needs new shoes. #Person1# measures her feet and finds out her shoes are one size small.


#Person1#: He's honest, hardworking and responsible. I simply can't find any shortcoming of his as an employee.
#Person2#: I rather doubt it. You're cheated by his appearance, I think.
#Person1#: Don't be so jealous. He never speaks ill of you before me.

Summary: #Person1# thinks #Person2#'s cheated by his appearance.


#Person1#: You're not going to believe what happened today. You'Ve got to promise to keep it to yourself.
#Person2#: Sure, what gives?
#Person1#: Today Mr. Leo threw Sally out of class!
#Person2#: On the level?
#Person1#: I'll say. I knew Sally would finally show her true colors. When she got her final test results back from Mr. Leo, she started yelling at him. You should have heard her. I'Ve never seen anyone get so upset before. To make a long story short, it seems that Mr. Leo failed her because he caught her cheating.
#Person2#: That's no laughing matter. That means she'll have to take the whole course again. I can't believe she's going to have to start from the beginning.
#Person1#: It serves her right!

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# Sally yelled at Mr. Leo because he failed her for cheating. #Person2# can't believe Sally has to start all over but #Person1# thinks she deserves it.


#Person1#: That dress is very pretty. Why don't you like it?
#Person2#: It's too loud.
#Person1#: We've been looking around for many hours. What on earth are you looking for?
#Person2#: Well, you know, those styles or colors don't suit me.
#Person1#: What style do you want?
#Person2#: I want to buy a V-neck checked sweater, and it should be tight.
#Person1#: Oh, I see. How about the color?
#Person2#: Quiet color.
#Person1#: I know a shop selling this kind of sweaters.
#Person2#: Really? Let's go there.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy a specific sweater. #Person1# recommends a shop and they will go there.


#Person1#: Good morning, can I help you?
#Person2#: No, thanks. We are just looking around.
#Person1#: Take your time. Please let me know if you need any help.
#Person2#: OK, thanks. We will.
#Person3#: Oh, Gucci, the clothes here are expensive! No wonder there are only a few people in here.
#Person2#: Beauty costs, friend. Oh, look at this pink skirt, how cute!
#Person3#: Believe it or not, they look cute, but not very practical.
#Person2#: Come on, May, don't talk like my Mom.
#Person3#: When you buy clothes, you must consider the material, quality and price.
#Person2#: But fashion changes!
#Person3#: Make sure the clothes can be worn for various occasions.
#Person2#: All right, May. Hey, look, I'm sure this is the same skirt that Spice Girl wear.
#Person3#: Definitely! Oh, I love Spice Girls! I gotta get this skirt!

Summary: Gucci and May are shopping for clothes. Gucci acts cool at first, but she gets thrilled when May shows her the same skirt that Spice Girl wear and wants to buy it.


#Person1#: Can I help you, sir?
#Person2#: Yes. I want to rent a formal suit for an interview. Can you give me some advice?
#Person1#: Yes. You should rent a brown suit and a black shirt.
#Person2#: May I try this on?
#Person1#: Yes. Let me help you.

Summary: #Person2# wants to rent a formal suit. #Person1# serves #Person2#.


#Person1#: Hi, Jack, how have you been?
#Person2#: Not very well.
#Person1#: Why? Looks like you're feeling very down! What happened?
#Person2#: Nothing.
#Person1#: Come on. For a man who's feeling so, down, there're usually two reasons. Either his career is going downhill, or he has a broken heart. Since you're so successful, it must be the latter.
#Person2#: Well, you're right. I just broke up with Jane.
#Person1#: Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you two were made for each ocher.
#Person2#: Well, you never know. I'm ready for a commitment and want to settle down, but she says she wants to pursue her career while she's still young.
#Person1#: Well, she is not to blame. It's always difficult to choose between career and family.
#Person2#: Maybe you're right.
#Person1#: Jack, I don't know what to say to comfort you, but cheer up! There are plenty of fish in the sea and you'll find your soul mate, your perfect match!
#Person2#: Yeah, but it's hard to forget her at moment. You know, we were together for almost five years. It's really hard...

Summary: Jack is down because he broke up with Jane. #Person1# tells him to cheer up, but Jack thinks it's hard to forget her at moment.


#Person1#: Dear Aaron, and how are you?
#Person2#: Quite well, thank you.
#Person1#: I'm celebrating my ninth birthday, the day after tomorrow.
#Person2#: Well, where is the function arranged?
#Person1#: It is arranged in a hotel.
#Person2#: Where is it?
#Person1#: It is just next to my house.
#Person2#: Will your uncle Vince attend the function?
#Person1#: No, but he has sent me a camera as my birthday present.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# will celebrate #Person1#'s birthday in a hotel. #Person1#'s uncle won't come but already sent a present.


#Person1#: How much is this shirt?
#Person2#: 80 yuan.
#Person1#: It's rather expensive, isn't it?
#Person2#: It's a bit. But I can give you a discount.
#Person1#: How about 50 yuan?
#Person2#: No. I'm afraid the price is too low.
#Person1#: Then let's split the difference and I'll give you 60 yuan, OK?
#Person2#: I'm sorry, but I think you should give me no less than 65 yuan.
#Person1#: All right.

Summary: #Person1# bargains with #Person2# for a shirt. They reach an agreement at 65 yuan.


#Person1#: I just discovered that I owe $ 10 for a movie that I never ordered.
#Person2#: Let me check, sir. You were charged for watching'Titanic'Monday night.
#Person1#: That is absolutely incorrect! I was out on the town Monday night.
#Person2#: Okay, sir, bear with me a moment.
#Person1#: Thank you for taking my word over the computer's word.
#Person2#: One slight problem, sir. I need to charge you $ 2 to remove this error from your file.
#Person1#: You can
#Person2#: I feel your pain, sir.
#Person1#: Absolutely unbelievable! You people should be ashamed of yourselves.
#Person2#: I agree with you, sir, but all I do is work here.

Summary: #Person1# is annoyed because #Person1# found he owes money for a movie but he never ordered. #Person2# feels sorry for that but still needs to charge #Person1#.


#Person1#: What did you do over the weekend?
#Person2#: I went a global warming rally. It was fantastic to be around so many people who care about the environment.
#Person1#: Do you think there's anything we can do to reverse the damage that's been done already?
#Person2#: It might not be possible to fix the problems that we've created for ourselves, but there are lots of things we can do to prevent more damages from happening.
#Person1#: Like what?
#Person2#: Well, we can use public transport instead of taking our cars for a start.
#Person1#: What else can we do to protect the environment?
#Person2#: If you do have to drive, you should make sure that your car runs on unleaded petrol. Also, your home should use sources of renewable energy.
#Person1#: How about recycling? Does that actually help?
#Person2#: Yes. You should take your glass, paper, plastic, cardboard, and tin cans to a recycling center.
#Person1#: What do you think the biggest worry for our future is?
#Person2#: I think that the issue of greatest concern is having enough sources of clean water for everyone.
#Person1#: I had no idea you were such an environmentalist before!
#Person2#: To be honest, in order for the earth to continue to be a habitable place, we're all going to have to become more interested in the environment.

Summary: #Person2# thinks people need to do more, like using public transportation, using renewable energy, and recycling, to prevent more damages from happening so that the earth can continue to be a habitable place. #Person1# is surprised by #Person2#'s expertise.


#Person1#: I think we should home school our children when we decide to have kids.
#Person2#: What? Why?
#Person1#: Well, our public schools here are not very good and private school are just too expensive. I have been reading up on home schooling and it has a lot of advantages.
#Person2#: Like what? I think that by doing something like that we would be isolating our children from social interaction.
#Person1#: Well, first of all, I would be able to teach them everything they learn in school in a more relaxed and fun way. I also think that having a one-on-one class is much better since you can focus more on his or her strengths or weaknesses.
#Person2#: I think neither your parents or mine would agree to such an idea.
#Person1#: I will bring it up over Sunday brunch.
#Person2#: Good luck with that!

Summary: #Person1# considers home schooling their children in the future. #Person2# thinks it will isolate their children from society. #Person1# will negotiate it with their parents over Sunday brunch.


#Person1#: How much is this?
#Person2#: You mean the large one or the small one?
#Person1#: The large one.
#Person2#: They're on special this week. They've been reduced to five dollars.
#Person1#: Is this the only kind you have?
#Person2#: No. We have some that are different in style but not in color. They're over there. Do you see the sign?
#Person1#: Oh, yes. I think I'll look at those over there before I decide.
#Person2#: Very well. Just take your time.

Summary: #Person1# is shopping. #Person2# serves #Person1#, showing the goods #Person1# is interested in.


#Person1#: My dear, what's for supper?
#Person2#: Red cooked carp and rape with fresh mushrooms.
#Person1#: What about soup?
#Person2#: Sour-peppery soup.
#Person1#: Which condiment do you use for?
#Person2#: I'll use ginger, garlic scallion, hot pepper and vinegar.
#Person1#: Very good, need I help you?
#Person2#: No, don't need, I can do myself.
#Person1#: Thanks. I can watch TV now.
#Person2#: But you must cook that dinner next time.
#Person1#: Okay, I'll do it next time.

Summary: #Person2# is preparing the supper and asks #Person1# to cook the dinner next time.


#Person1#: Well, I'm glad you're finally back. I was wondering what happened.
#Person2#: I feel kind of stupid.
#Person1#: Why?
#Person2#: We got lost coming back. I guess I don't really know this town yet.
#Person1#: You got lost. You're kidding!
#Person2#: No. We took a wrong turn somewhere.And Joseph doesn't know the town at all. So I started giving him directions.But I didn't really know where we were. So we got seriously lost.
#Person1#: You could have called.
#Person2#: I know I could have. But finally we asked someone where we were.
#Person1#: You've been gone for two hours. How could you get lost for so long?
#Person2#: Guess where we ended up.
#Person1#: I don't know. Where?
#Person2#: When we finally decided to ask someone, they told us we were in Grangerfield.
#Person1#: Grangerfield! You were in Grangerfield? That's a completely different town! How could you drive to a completely different town?
#Person2#: I don't know.The person we asked had to give us directions to the highway to get back here.
#Person1#: Grangerfield is like a dozen miles away from here.
#Person2#: I know it is. I don't know how it happened.
#Person1#: Hmm, maybe I do.
#Person2#: What?
#Person1#: Maybe I have an idea how it happened.
#Person2#: How?
#Person1#: You were too busy looking at Joseph, and you weren't paying attention to the road.
#Person2#: Oh, that's what you think, huh?

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# and Joseph got lost. They asked a person for directions to come back and realized they went to a completely different town. #Person1# jokes that it was because #Person2# was busy looking at Joseph and wasn't paying attention to the road.


#Person1#: I have to do some shopping.
#Person2#: What are you going to look for?
#Person1#: I'm trying to buy a new bedroom set.
#Person2#: What store are you going to?
#Person1#: I'm not sure.
#Person2#: You don't know?
#Person1#: I have no idea where to find one.
#Person2#: Would you like me to tell you where I got mine.
#Person1#: I would appreciate that.
#Person2#: I went to get mine from IKEA.
#Person1#: Is the furniture at IKEA cheap?
#Person2#: They're not cheap, but neither is their furniture.

Summary: #Person1# wants a new bedroom set. #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# got #Person2#'s from IKEA.


#Person1#: I can't even imagine you snorkeling!
#Person2#: Well, you'll see. With this new watch, I can go anywhere, do anything.
#Person1#: OK, Bond.
#Person2#: No, really. Look. It's got a double time zone setting.
#Person1#: So you can always keep two times at once?
#Person2#: Yep. I just can't decide what two cities to choose. . .
#Person1#: The only two times you need are I'm late and I'm really late.

Summary: Bond is showing off his new watch but #Person1# doesn't care.


#Person1#: Do you know next week is Halloween? It's on October 31st.
#Person2#: So what do yon do on Halloween? We don't have that holiday in Russia.
#Person1#: Well, it's a day when kids dress up in masks and costumes. They knock on people's doors and ask for candy by saying 'trick or treat'.
#Person2#: Hmm. Sounds interesting.
#Person1#: But it's not just for kids. Lots of people go to costume parties. Hey, my friend Alan is having a party. Would you like to go?
#Person2#: Sure. I'd love to.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# how people celebrate Halloween and invites #Person2# to a party.


#Person1#: It's going to strike 12 o'clock. Let's get the firecrackers ready, Rose.
#Person2#: Aren't firecrackers forbidden in the city?
#Person1#: Well yes, but they are not allowed only in downtown areas. It's OK here. It would be difficult to ban customs that have thousands of years of tradition. The habit does bring kids joy and excitement so long as precautions are taken. Let's go out and set off firecrackers out there.
#Person2#: Fantastic! The whole city is echoing with crackling sounds!
#Person1#: What other activities will you have tomorrow?
#Person2#: Quite a lot. The celebration of the New Year has just started. The first day we southerners have sweet rice cakes for breakfast, and people in the North have Jiaozi. Afterward, we will make New Year calls on family relatives, husband's side on the first day and wife's side on the second.
#Person1#: Do you bring some gifts along?
#Person2#: That's for sure. Fruit, cream cakes, medical tonics are often for parents and aged relatives, and cash enclosed in a red envelope for the kids. All this, of course, should be well prepared beforehand.
#Person1#: Is it the same practice for all families?
#Person2#: Not all the same nowadays I must say. Many families, especially those of newly married couples, choose to make an overseas trip to escape the routines. Rose and I had a tour to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong last year. We stayed there for two weeks until the last day of the holiday.
#Person1#: I really appreciate the way you Chinese people exchange feelings. The holiday's long enough for you to relax.
#Person2#: Well, for city dwellers, the Spring Festival is a holiday of seven days. While in the country where traditions are still heavily emphasized, the festival lasts ten days.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to get firecrackers ready for the coming new year. #Person2# tells #Person1# the other ways to celebrate New Year, including eating sweet rice cakes, making New Year calls on families and relatives, and traveling overseas.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir! Please know some about our latest products.
#Person2#: These are your products?
#Person1#: They are our products. Please come in and have a look. This is the catalogue for our products.
#Person2#: May I have your name card? I am always concerned about the newest computer.
#Person1#: Of course, here you are.
#Person2#: Thank you.
#Person1#: Would you sit down and write down your name and address here?
#Person2#: OK! Would you like to recommend some for our reference?
#Person1#: This is the latest design for our products. The design of I-series keeps the fashion in a close way. The sales volume of the new product is about 50, 000 per month. And we received many orders from many clothes companies. New functions and attractive outlook are the key points for our products.

Summary: #Person1# leads #Person2# to have a look at their latest products. #Person1# takes away #Person2#'s name card and leaves #Person1#'s informatioin. #Person2# introduces the new product and design.


#Person1#: Well, good morning, Tom. I haven't seen you for a long time.
#Person2#: I'd been feeling pretty well until just a few days ago.
#Person1#: What seems to be the trouble now?
#Person2#: I feel run down, tired. I've been having headaches almost every day. And I'm not getting as much sleep as usually do.
#Person1#: Have you been eating properly? Eating the right kind of food is important for your health, you know.
#Person2#: Well, I haven't been eating well, I guess. I usually only have enough time to grab a sandwich and a cup of coffee for lunch.
#Person1#: And what about dinner?
#Person2#: Sometimes I'm too tired to eat anything at all.
#Person1#: That's not good. You don't have a well-balanced diet. Have you been taking vitamin pills?
#Person2#: I don't like to take any medicine at all without talking it over with a doctor first.

Summary: Tom started to feel ill several days ago and #Person1# finds out it might arise from Tom's unhealthy diet.


#Person1#: It will do you good to go out for entertainment at weekends. What kind of movie do you like best?
#Person2#: It's hard to say, I like interesting and significant ones. I don't care whether they're blockbusters or not.
#Person1#: Shall we go downtown for a movie this Friday evening?
#Person2#: Very good, What's on?
#Person1#: I'm not sure. Let me give a call to find out.

Summary: #Person2# likes interesting and significant movies. #Person1# invites #Person2# to a movie this Friday evening and #Person2# accepts.


#Person1#: I've come about your wools. According to our market survey, wools are likely to find a ready market in our country.
#Person2#: Wonderful! We can meet your requirements and the offer is ready for you. Here it is. The unit price is USD 15.00 per kilogram.
#Person1#: Do you quote CIF or FOB?
#Person2#: It's FOB Shanghai.
#Person1#: Could you quote the price of CIF Hamburg?
#Person2#: Certainly, that's easy. We will work out our CIF offer this evening. Could you come again tomorrow, say, at 10 AM?
#Person1#: Okay, see you tomorrow!

Summary: #Person1# wants to accept #Person2#'s offer of wools and requests to quote the price of CIF Hamburg. #Person2# agrees.


#Person1#: That looks like a bad accident.
#Person2#: Yeah, should we get out and help?
#Person1#: No, there's a police car behind us. He'll stop.
#Person2#: Looks like the one guy lost control in all this rain, and the other one hit him.
#Person1#: Yeah. It's pretty bad, that car looks like a coke can.
#Person2#: These accidents always cause traffic jams on rainy days.
#Person1#: Yeah, it looks like we're in for a long drive.
#Person2#: Ah, well. Put on the news. I got up late and missed it.
#Person1#: All right.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# meet a car accident while they're driving. The accident causes traffic jams and they have to wait.


#Person1#: Hey, buddy, can ' t you see there ' s a line?
#Person2#: Oh, sorry. I didn ' t know.
#Person1#: What? You haven ' t taken the bus before?
#Person2#: No, I ' m afraid not.
#Person1#: Well, you have to wait in line like everyone else. Besides, you should let old people on first.
#Person2#: Sorry.
#Person1#: It ' s all right. Where are you going?
#Person2#: I wanted to see the White House.
#Person1#: Oh, well you don ' t want this bus, anyway. It goes to Georgetown.
#Person2#: Oh, no.
#Person1#: It ' s all right, though. Just get off at the next stop and catch the 79A.
#Person2#: Oh, well thank you very much.
#Person1#: You ' re welcome.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# to wait in line and let old people go first. #Person1# tells #Person2# the right bus to the White House.


#Person1#: Hi there. Do you need any help?
#Person2#: I've been told about something called Southern Fund. How can I buy it?
#Person1#: First of all, you should open a Fund Account with us, just fill in this form. We'll need to see some ID and your Cash Card.
#Person2#: That sounds simple enough. Do you charge any admin fees for that?
#Person1#: You'll have to pay 20 RIB, and then you will have your Southern Fund Management company card.
#Person2#: Do you need any other documentation from me?
#Person1#: Yes, we'll need to fill in this form, for fund trading and this one, for subscribing for and / or applying for purchasing fund units. The minimum is 500 RIB.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy Southern Fund, so #Person1# tells #Person2# to open a Fund Account with #Person1#, pay 20 RIB, and fill a form.


#Person1#: Excuse me Madam, can you tell me how to get to Sun College? I'm walking.
#Person2#: Well, I think the simplest way for you is to go up to main street over there, turn left on main street and keep going for about 20 minutes. When you get to water square, turn right, keep on past the mass hospital to the end of the road, and then take a left turn. You'll be on Rain Avenue. Walk 2 blocks until you see the farmers bank. Cross the street and almost immediately take a left turn, again. The entrance to Sun College is down a few yards on your right, can you remember all that?
#Person1#: I guess I got a little lost in the middle.
#Person2#: Well, perhaps the best thing for you is to find your way up to mass hospital and ask again.
#Person1#: Ok, thanks a lot.
#Person2#: My pleasure.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the way to Sun College and suggests #Person1# ask again at the mass hospital.