#Person1#: Hi, Nicole. Did you have a good weekend?
#Person2#: Yes, I did. But I feel tired today.
#Person1#: Really? Why?
#Person2#: Well, on Saturday I cleaned the house and played tennis. Then on Sunday I hiked in the country.
#Person1#: And I bet you studied, too.
#Person2#: Yeah. I studied on Sunday evening. What about you?
#Person1#: Well, I didn't clean the house and I didn't study. I stayed in bed and watched TV.
#Person2#: That sounds like fun, but did you exercise?
#Person1#: Sort of. I played golf on my computer!

Summary: Nicole and #Person1# talk about how they spent their last weekends.


#Person1#: Were you at the scene during the robbery?
#Person2#: Yes, I was, Officer.
#Person1#: Were you able to see a lot?
#Person2#: I was there as it happened.
#Person1#: What happened?
#Person2#: The robber came in with a gun.
#Person1#: Could you see his face?
#Person2#: He had a mask over his face.
#Person1#: Was he with someone else?
#Person2#: He was alone.
#Person1#: Would you be willing to come down to the station for further questioning?
#Person2#: I would be happy to.

Summary: #Person1# was at the scene during the robbery, and Officer asks #Person1# for further questioning.


#Person1#: Would you mind telling me the purpose of your visit to the U. K. ?
#Person2#: I am here on business.
#Person1#: May I see your passport?
#Person2#: Of course, here you are.
#Person1#: Would you please open the suitcase? What are these?
#Person2#: They are two cameras.
#Person1#: Do you have anything to declare?
#Person2#: Yes, I have one carton of cigarettes and a bottle of whiskey.
#Person1#: OK, you're through now.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# is going to the U. K on business and declares what #Person2# brings.


#Person1#: Oh, my god. How can you stand living in such a messy dorm?
#Person2#: Our place is spotlessly clean, compared with others.
#Person1#: Have you even tried to clean it once since you moved in at the beginning of the semester?
#Person2#: In fact, I just swept the floor three days ago.
#Person1#: I think we need to restart the dormitory sanitation inspection system.
#Person2#: I bet nobody will care about it.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the dorm is messy but #Person2# thinks it's spotlessly clean.


#Person1#: Have you obtained any certificate of technical qualifications or license?
#Person2#: Yes, I have received an Engineer's Qualification Certificate and a driver's license.
#Person1#: How many years have you had the driver's license?
#Person2#: I have two years driving experience.
#Person1#: That's good. What special skills do you have, can you tell me?
#Person2#: I have experience in computer operation, proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.
#Person1#: What computer languages have you learned?
#Person2#: Visual C + +, C and Delphi.
#Person1#: Have you gotten any special training in programming?
#Person2#: No, but I have database programming experience and network knowledge.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# about any certificate of technical qualifications, special skills, and special training in programming #Person2# has obtained or got.


#Person1#: Could you call Mr. Jacob for me, Sara? I need to go over some stuff with him.
#Person2#: Of course, Mr. Roberts. But, could you tell me his extension number again? I haven't got all the numbers down yet.
#Person1#: Sure, it's 4-8- 7-2. Don't worry. You're doing a fine job.
#Person2#: Thank you very much. Mr. Roberts.

Summary: Mr. Roberts asks Sara to call Mr. Jacob and tells her the extension number.


#Person1#: Old Dyson looks as if he maybe kick the bucket any day.
#Person2#: Why do you say that?
#Person1#: I've ever seen a living being looked so thin.
#Person2#: Really? In my eyes it's normal, as an old man, to be thin is better than to be fat.
#Person1#: Maybe you are right.

Summary: #Person1# thinks Old Dyson looks too thin. #Person2# thinks it's normal.


#Person1#: Mike! Look at the floor!
#Person2#: What's wrong with it?
#Person1#: What's wrong with it? It's filthy!
#Person2#: Oh...
#Person1#: It's filthy because you never wipe your shoes.
#Person2#: Sorry, love.
#Person1#: What are you looking for now?
#Person2#: My cigarettes.
#Person1#: Well, they ' re not here. They are in the dustbin.
#Person2#: In the dustbin! Why didn't you tell me before?

Summary: #Person1# blames Mike for making the floor filthy and throws Mike's cigarettes away.


#Person1#: Your exam is over, isn't it? Why aren't you cheerful?
#Person2#: Oh, I don't know. It isn't that the questions were too hard, but I always feel uneasy when the exam doesn't seem to have much to do with the book.

Summary: #Person2# feels uneasy because the exam doesn't seem to have much to do with the book.


#Person1#: Can you help me pick out some fabric for a suit? I'm going to get one made for a friend's wedding.
#Person2#: Sure. What kind of material do you want for the suit to be made from?
#Person1#: It depends on the price, but I was thinking of getting a wool/cashmere blend.
#Person2#: That will probably be quite expensive, but the more you pay for the fabric, the longer it'll last and the better it'll look. What color do you want the suit to be?
#Person1#: I was thinking of a brown pin-striped suit.
#Person2#: Brown, huh? Isn't that a bit dull?
#Person1#: Haven't you heard? Brown is the new black.
#Person2#: Why don't you just get black? Black suits are always fashionable and can be worn for anything a funeral, a wedding, a job interview, anything!
#Person1#: That may be true, but black is so boring. Anyway, I already have three black suits. I might as well get a suit that stands out from the rest.
#Person2#: Here are two different shades of brown. Which one do you prefer?
#Person1#: I like the one on the left, but I don't like the pattern on it. It's too much. I want a pattern that's a bit subtler.
#Person2#: How about this one? ?
#Person1#: I think that will do. Let's go talk to the tailor about getting it made.
#Person2#: Ok, let's go.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# to pick out some fabric for a suit. #Person1# wants a wool/cashmere blend. #Person2# thinks the brown pin-striped suit is dull and suggests the black one, but #Person1# already has three black suits. #Person1# finally decides on the one with a subtler pattern.


#Person1#: Hi, Nally, are you hungry?
#Person2#: I'm starving. Let's go grab a bite.
#Person1#: Where to?
#Person2#: How about Karlis?
#Person1#: Are you kidding? That place is too ritzy for lunch.
#Person2#: True . ok Let's go to Gerumose?
#Person1#: Same thing, meals there all coarsen arm and leg.
#Person2#: I guess it is a little pricy.
#Person1#: Let's stop it at Multicolor for a quick lunch. .
#Person2#: That will be Ok. Come on , I can't wait to chow down.
#Person1#: That was a great lunch , the food was good ,but the service was lousy.
#Person2#: Is that why you stiffed the waiter?
#Person1#: You got it . All right, Let's go back to school.

Summary: #Person1# and Nally talk about where to have lunch. They finally go to Multicolor for a quick lunch. #Person1# thinks the food was good but the service was lousy


#Person1#: I'd like to speak to Mister Johnson, please.
#Person2#: Speaking.
#Person1#: Oh hello. This is Erica Stone. My living room window was broken this afternoon. Can you repair it?
#Person2#: Sure, I can come over tomorrow afternoon. Is that OK?
#Person1#: Could you come over now?
#Person2#: OK. I'll come over and take a look in a little while.
#Person1#: You charge about $100, don't you?
#Person2#: Usually if it's a small window. See, didn't I repair a window for you a few weeks ago?
#Person1#: Yes, you did.
#Person2#: Oh, and your little ones have broken the window again. Were they playing ball in the house?
#Person1#: Well, no. I told them not to do that anymore. This time I broke it. I was practicing volleyball.
#Person2#: Oh, you did, did you?

Summary: Erica calls Johnson and wants him to repair the window now. Last time the window was broken by kids but this time it was broken by Erica.


#Person1#: Hi, Tony. Haven't seen you for a long time. How have you been?
#Person2#: OK, I've been looking for a job for days, and I haven't found one yet. It's so hard finding work these days. Have you had any luck?
#Person1#: Yes, I've got a job, a waiter's job in a restaurant.
#Person2#: Are you well paid?
#Person1#: Well, $10 per hour, but I can keep the tips. That comes to roughly $80 every evening
#Person2#: Not bad.
#Person1#: Actually, there's still another opening. If you are interested, you'll surely get it.
#Person2#: That's great! I'll go there right now and speak with the boss.
#Person1#: There's no rush. You can see him tomorrow. I've told him about you. He promised to give you the job.
#Person2#: That was nice of you, Susan. Thanks a lot.
#Person1#: Think nothing of it, Tony. I'm sure you'd do the same for me.
#Person2#: Could you tell me a bit more about the work there? I mean, those dos and don'ts. I am a green hand, you know.
#Person1#: First of all, you must be punctual. You should be there before 6 p. m. so that you will have half an hour for preparation changing clothes and things like that. Then,remember you should smile. Smile to your customers all the time. Never pull a long face even If you feel awful that day. Anything else? Oh, yes. Never argue with your boss. Learn to say 'Yes, sir. '
#Person2#: Be a yes-man, you mean?
#Person1#: You may put it that way if you like. Don't worry. You'll have no problem.
#Person2#: I hope not.

Summary: Tony hasn't got a job, while Susan has got one as a waiter in a restaurant. Susan has told her boss about Tony and the boss promised to give Tony the job. Tony is grateful. Then Susan talks about the rules of the job.


#Person1#: There must be something weighing on your mind. What is it?
#Person2#: Dad, I lost mum's necklace. I'm afraid she will scold me.
#Person1#: Don't worry. I'll buy a new necklace as same as the old one.
#Person2#: It is so kind of you, Dad.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person2#'s dad #Person2# lost mum's necklace. #Person2#'s dad will buy the same one.


#Person1#: So Kim, have you ever had anything stolen?
#Person2#: Stolen? No, why?
#Person1#: My uncle just had his motorcycle stolen a few nights ago. I was just thinking about how clever criminals are these days.
#Person2#: Criminals are clever? They're only successful when people are careless.
#Person1#: I don't know. The ones who stole my uncle's motorcycle were pretty good.
#Person2#: If your uncle had an alarm system, then it wouldn't have happened.
#Person1#: He did. It was one of the best ones available. But that didn't stop them from disabling it. And on a crowded street too.
#Person2#: Didn't anyone stop them?
#Person1#: You would think that people would be smart enough to stop something like that. No one knew his motorcycle was being stolen. The thieves came in a truck and convinced everybody that my uncle was parked illegally and they were there to tow it away.
#Person2#: Wow, they were good. I guess criminals aren't that dumb after all.
#Person1#: That's not the end. They were so good that they convinced a bystander to help them lift the motorcycle and put it in the truck.

Summary: #Person1# tells Kim that the motorcycle of #Person1#'s uncle was stolen. The thieves were so clever because they convinced everyone that the motorcycle was parked illegally and even convinced a bystander to help them.


#Person1#: I want to go try on these clothes.
#Person2#: What did you find?
#Person1#: I found some jeans, and a new blouse.
#Person2#: Go and try it on.
#Person1#: What do you think?
#Person2#: I love that shirt on you.
#Person1#: What about the jeans?
#Person2#: They don't really fit you right.
#Person1#: I don't think so either.
#Person2#: That blouse is absolutely wonderful on you.
#Person1#: I'll just buy the shirt.
#Person2#: That would be a good idea.

Summary: #Person1# tries on some jeans and a blouse. #Person1# decides to buy the shirt. #Person2# agrees.


#Person1#: Looking through your C. V. , I see that you graduated from Oklahoma State University. Can you tell me what training you have had that would specifically relate to the cable television Industry?
#Person2#: Well, I'Ve attended some conferences in this field. But the most relevant training I'Ve had was in computer design. I believe I could integrate that knowledge with my college degree to design
#Person1#: I see. Did you have anything specific in mind?
#Person2#: Well, I notice that you currently provide an on-screen TV Guide. At the moment, it just scrolls the names of the programs in a repeated loop. If you have many channels, you have to wait a long t
#Person1#: That's impressive. How would you make that pay?
#Person2#: Tie it in with the pay-per-view services, and perhaps it could be a money-maker.
#Person1#: I see you have several good ideas. Now, I just have a few questions about your C. V. I notice that there is a five-year gap between your last job and now.
#Person2#: Yes, I took a break from work during that time. I had a baby, and as she was born with a handicap, I decided to suspend my career. But I have continued to keep up with the Industry through con
#Person1#: So, you're just starting back. Maybe you'd better tell me a little more about your experience.

Summary: #Person2# did computer design and recommends the pay-per-view services. #Person1# thinks #Person2# has mang good ideas but there's a five-year gap in the C.V. #Person2# explains #Person2# took care of #Person2#'s handicapped baby during that time.


#Person1#: There's a new girl in school, have you seen her yet?
#Person2#: I haven't seen her yet.
#Person1#: I think that she is very pretty.
#Person2#: Tell me how she looks.
#Person1#: She's kind of short.
#Person2#: What height is she?
#Person1#: She's probably about five feet.
#Person2#: That's nice, but tell me what she looks like.
#Person1#: The first thing I noticed was her beautiful brown eyes.
#Person2#: I think I might've bumped into her before.
#Person1#: Are you telling me that you've seen her before?
#Person2#: I believe so.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# a new girl is about five feet and has beautiful brown eyes. #Person2# thinks #Person2# has seen her before.


#Person1#: I need to order new business cards.
#Person2#: Do you have any idea how many you'd like?
#Person1#: I think 2, 000 would be enough.
#Person2#: Would you fill out this form, please?
#Person1#: I don't want to make any changes to my old card.
#Person2#: If you detect any difference, I'll take you out to dinner.
#Person1#: . . . Okay, that's it. Here's the form, and here's my old card to use as a model.
#Person2#: Thank you. Your order will be ready seven days from now.
#Person1#: I need it sooner. Let me have it in three days, okay?
#Person2#: We can certainly give you faster turnaround, but it will cost you extra.

Summary: #Person1# wants to order 2000 new business cards. #Person1# needs it faster than scheduled so #Person2# says it will cost more.


#Person1#: You seem to have a lot of work to do at your office. You're always staying late and working overtime.
#Person2#: That's true. But it's no bother to me. The work is interesting. I don't mind extra hours at all.

Summary: #Person1# thinks #Person2# always works overtime, but #Person2# enjoys it.


#Person1#: So, what happened?
#Person2#: He never came.
#Person1#: He stood you up.
#Person2#: I wouldn't exactly characterize it in that way. I think something happened. Something terrible and unexpected that made it impossible for him to. . . what if he showed up, took one look at me and left?
#Person1#: Not possible.
#Person2#: Maybe, there was a subway accident.
#Person1#: Absolutely.
#Person2#: A train got trapped underground with him inside.
#Person1#: And no phone.
#Person2#: And you know, how those express trains create suction.

Summary: #Person2# thinks something terrible and unexpected happened to the man who stood up #Person2#. #Person1# disagrees.


#Person1#: Andrew, you are late again. What's the matter?
#Person2#: I got stuck in the heavy traffic.
#Person1#: How long does it take you to come here?
#Person2#: It depends. If I ride my bike, it will take me about 50 minutes.
#Person1#: How about taking the bus?
#Person2#: If I am lucky, I will spend only half an hour on my way. But if it is not my day, it will take almost an hour.
#Person1#: That really wastes a lot of time. Why don't you move to a neighborhood closer to our company?
#Person2#: It is a little far from downtown.
#Person1#: But you will not be late that off in this way. And there is a supermarket near our company. You can buy food or clothes there after work. It is convenient.
#Person2#: Well, that might be a way. But I like to meet my friends after work. Moving here means losing the chance to meet them.

Summary: Andrew is late because of the traffic. #Person1# suggests him moving closer to their company. But Andrew doesn't want to because he likes living near friends.


#Person1#: Excuse me, do you know where the nearest subway station is?
#Person2#: The nearest one is 10 minutes away on foot and it's the entrance to both line 5 and line 6, which one are you taking?
#Person1#: I'm not so sure. I'm here on vacation.
#Person2#: OK, where do you need to go then?
#Person1#: I want to go to the M hotel.
#Person2#: Oh, it's a long line 6, but it's 10:45. As I know line 6 stops running at 10:30 every night.
#Person1#: OK. Do you know where it would be easier to get a taxi around here?
#Person2#: It's really difficult to get a taxi around this area on a weekend night.
#Person1#: Oh, no. What should I do?
#Person2#: Wait, you can still take line 5. It runs until midnight on weekends.
#Person1#: Does it have a stop near my hotel?
#Person2#: No, but from Line 5 you can transfer onto line 1 which has a stop near the hotel and it runs until 11:45.
#Person1#: That's great. Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# how to go to the M hotel by subway late at night.


#Person1#: Hi Steve, it's nice to meet you. I hear that you're looking for an apartment, and I just rented a two-bedroom downtown. I'm looking for a compatible roommate.
#Person2#: Great, I'm looking for a place right in that area. Your apartment sounds ideal.
#Person1#: Alright. So tell me, how would you describe yourself?
#Person2#: I'm pretty social and outgoing, and I like making new friends. But I'm not a party animal, and I like to keep the apartment clean.
#Person1#: I'm like that too. I like to invite friends over sometimes, but I don't want to have lots of crazy parties at the apartment.

Summary: Steve's looking for an apartment and #Person1#'s looking for a roommate. They're learning about each other.


#Person1#: I think you're being a little naive.
#Person2#: If I want, I can protect myself by paying through an escrow account, which holds the money until I receive the item.
#Person1#: That proves my point! Protect yourself or you'll get burned.
#Person2#: eBay also offers free insurance. You can get a refund of up to $200 if you're not satisfied with your purchase.
#Person1#: $200? If they get a hold of your credit card number, you're going to be out a lot more than $200! I had a friend who. . .

Summary: #Person2# trusts the free insurance offered by eBay, but #Person1# regards it unsafe and asks #Person2# to do more self-protection.


#Person1#: How did you spend the weekend?
#Person2#: I went to a movie with my boyfriend.
#Person1#: Really? How was it?
#Person2#: It was great. The director took a lot of care while framing. They say be has good chance at winning the Oscar for best director. Also I like the actors, some really great new young actors.
#Person1#: Oh, yeah? What's it about?
#Person2#: Well, it's the classic love story between two people from conflicting backgrounds. But besides a beautiful story, the cinematography is great. There is some really dramatic footage. It's really quite a visual feast. And the soundtrack is moving.
#Person1#: Sounds pretty good. Is it a tragedy?
#Person2#: The ending is a bit of a surprise. I don't want to ruin it for you.
#Person1#: Oh, I like movies with surprise endings, although, sometimes they can be frustrating. Maybe I should invite my girlfriend to go next weekend.
#Person2#: It would be a really good choice. The movie is very suitable for lovers to see together. I'm sure you won't regret it.

Summary: #Person2# recommends a movie to #Person1# which is about the classic love story between two people from conflicting backgrounds with great cinematography. #Person1# may invite #Person1#'s girlfriend to see it next weekend.


#Person1#: Excuse me, but I think you've made a wrong turn. You were supposed to turn left on Wilson Blvd.
#Person2#: Oh, I'm sorry. Did you say 1323 Wilson?
#Person1#: No, it is 3023. It is OK though, you don't have to take me there, I can walk from here.
#Person2#: I can just make a U turn and so one way street. See the sign up ahead? Maybe if I turn left here, I can come down the next street.
#Person1#: We can't do that during the rush hour. Really, though it won't be much trouble, sometimes one can wait 30 minutes for a taxi. So I'm happy to get this close.
#Person2#: 30 minutes? I've been riding around all day looking for passengers.

Summary: #Person2# drove a wrong way, but #Person1# says it's ok as #Person1# can walk to there.


#Person1#: Would you please tell me why you want to work in our kindergarten? You know kids are sometimes so tiresome.
#Person2#: I love children. I can sing to them and teach them how to dance.
#Person1#: Then have you worked in a kindergarten before?
#Person2#: No, but I used to take care of children during summer and winter holidays.
#Person1#: I see. By the way, do you want to work part-time or full-time?
#Person2#: I'd prefer part-time.
#Person1#: When can you work?
#Person2#: I'm free every afternoon. So I can work about 20 hours a week.
#Person1#: OK, Jean, you're hired. You can work here from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., four days a week, except Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Summary: #Person1# asks Jean the reason why she wants to work in kindergarten, her previous working experience and preference of part-time or full-time. Then #Person1# hires her as a part-time teacher.


#Person1#: How about your present pay?
#Person2#: Basically I get 5, 000 RMB every month. It is a well-paid job with satisfying working hours.
#Person1#: What are your salary expectations?
#Person2#: I require 6, 500 RMB per month as a start. This is my bottom line, the minimum salary I can accept.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s present pay and expects at least 6,500 RMB per month.


#Person1#: Those are the headlines for today, and now for the international weather report with Mike Sanderson.
#Person2#: Thank you, Bob! This past week has been the beginning of Armageddon for many, a series of unprecedented meteorological events occurred around the world. In Switzerland, a major avalanche was reported in the Alps. Fortunately, no one was injured. Due to to the extreme cold this winter, a blizzard has struck the US Midwest, causing classes in schools and universities to be temporarily canceled.
#Person1#: Moving to to Latin American, Ecuador has suffered a six month drought that has not only affected farming, but has also forced the closure of the hydroelectric power plant that provides electricity for the entire country. In Chile, a major earthquake that registered seven point five on the Richter scale struck the southern region. Losses are reported to be in the billions. Authorities have not yet released an official statement.
#Person2#: Not a great week for the world! Any good news?
#Person1#: I'm afraid not, Bob. One of the major volcanoes in Mexico has erupted, causing major floods and landslides in the region. Meanwhile, Mexico's coast has been hit by hurricane Liliana and officials say that all the seismic activity leads them to believe that a tsunami may hit Central America, affecting Honduras, Guatemala and Panama. That's all the news we have for today, but stay tuned for updates on the six o'clock news. Back to you Bob.

Summary: Mike Sanderson tells the audience that a series of unprecedented meteorological events occurred around the world and reports weather events in Switzerland, the US Midwest, and Mexico. Bob reports that of Latin American. All of them are bad news.


#Person1#: Are you going to camp this summer?
#Person2#: Oh no, I'm too old for that now. I'm going to a hiking trip. What are you going to do?
#Person1#: This year I'm going to be a camp teacher.
#Person2#: You really want to babysit children all summer?
#Person1#: Oh, I love it here. The girls are fun, too.
#Person2#: Well, if you like it, I guess it'll be fun. My brother was a teacher at Camp Sequoia for many years. He enjoyed it a lot.
#Person1#: My camp is great, too. We go sailing and hiking in the woods, also I get to go horseback riding everyday.
#Person2#: How long will you be there?
#Person1#: Until the middle of August.
#Person2#: I'll be back from my trip about that time. We'll have to get together then.
#Person1#: Sure, it'll be fun to compare notes.

Summary: #Person2#'s going on a hiking trip and #Person1#'s going to be a camp teacher. #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# loves the camp and talks about its activities.


#Person1#: Do you have any sales experience?
#Person2#: Yes, I worked in a fashion shop as a part time salesgirl.
#Person1#: What kind of work are you doing now?
#Person2#: I'm working as an export sales staff member for a trade company.
#Person1#: Where are you working?
#Person2#: I work at Yangshi Trade Company Ltd. I have been working there since 1997.

Summary: #Person1# interviews #Person2# of #Person2#'s sales experience.


#Person1#: Can you tell me where I can park?
#Person2#: Are you driving a motorcycle or an automobile?
#Person1#: I drive an automobile.
#Person2#: Fine. You can either park in the student lot or on the street. Do you know what a handicapped space is?
#Person1#: Yes, I have seen those spots.
#Person2#: Well, when you see the blue spots with the handicapped logo, do not park there unless you have a special permit. Are you going to be parking in the daytime or the evening?
#Person1#: I park in the evenings.
#Person2#: Then you also need to be aware of the time limits on the street signs. Have you seen those signs?
#Person1#: Yes, I have seen those signs.
#Person2#: The signs always tell you how long you can park there and on what days. Do you know how to read the curb colors?
#Person1#: Yes, I know what the curb colors mean.
#Person2#: Well, just as long as you realize that red means no parking and white means loading and unloading, I think you know what you need to know.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# where to park the automobile and some parking rules needing attention.


#Person1#: Excuse me, does this bus go to the new bookstore?
#Person2#: No, you'll have to get off at the bank, and take a No. 50.
#Person1#: Thank you. How much is the fare to that stop?
#Person2#: One dollar.
#Person1#: How many stops are there?
#Person2#: Two stops after this one.
#Person1#: Could you please tell me when we get there?
#Person2#: Sure.
#Person1#: By the way, do I need a transfer again after No. 50?
#Person2#: No, a No. 50 will take you right there.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# to get off this bus and take a No.50 to the bookstore.


#Person1#: Hello, what can I do for you today?
#Person2#: Well, I'Ve got a terrible stomach-ache and I keep needing the toilet.
#Person1#: I see. Well, with those symptoms maybe you'Ve got food poisoning. What have you eaten recently?
#Person2#: Well, I went to a seafood restaurant last night and I ate lots of oysters.
#Person1#: Hmm. It may be those then, especially if they were raw. Well, I'll give you these tablets and you should feel fine by tomorrow.
#Person2#: Ok. Thank you very much.

Summary:
#Person2# has a terrible stomach-ache and frequently goes to the toilet.
#Person1# thinks #Person2# has got food poisoning and gives #Person2# some tablets.


#Person1#: Hello.
#Person2#: Oh. Hello. You must be a new student. Did you find it OK?
#Person1#: Well, I got a bit lost because I asked a stranger. But I got it eventually.
#Person2#: Oh, dear. Have you come far today.
#Person1#: Only from Brighton. I was staying with my brother.
#Person2#: Oh, good. How did you get here?
#Person1#: My brother took me to the railway station. And I got on a bus at this end.
#Person2#: Aha. Well, you'd better tell me your name so I can find your form.
#Person1#: It's Mark Burn.
#Person2#: Burn, Burn. Ah, yes. Oh, you've changed since this photo. What happened to your beard and mustache? And not wearing glasses, either.
#Person1#: No, I thought I'd better look smarter.
#Person2#: Here is the key to your room. It's 501.
#Person1#: Thanks. How do I get there?
#Person2#: Go to the end of this corridor, turn left and it's the third door on the right.
#Person1#: Thank you. Oh, here's a meeting for new students. What time is that?
#Person2#: Half past five in the Common Room on the ground floor at the other end of the corridor.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot. Good-bye.

Summary: A new student Mark gets to the registration place. After finding Mark's form, #Person2# gives Mark the room key and shows the way to his room, and informs him about the time and location of the new students' meeting.


#Person1#: I can't wait to go skiing tomorrow.
#Person2#: I know. It's going to be so much fun.
#Person1#: I always get excited the day before.
#Person2#: I used to be like that. But I go skiing so often that I don't get excited anymore.
#Person1#: I only go skiing twice a year, so it's a real treat for me.
#Person2#: That makes sense.
#Person1#: What things make you excited?
#Person2#: Whenever I go to Vegas, I get really excited.
#Person1#: Oh. . . that makes me excited too!
#Person2#: Looks like anything fun makes you excited.

Summary: #Person1# is excited to go skiing tomorrow, while #Person2# feels excited when going to Vegas.


#Person1#: Hi! Weren't you two at the English Evening yesterday?
#Person2#: Yes. How did you like it?
#Person1#: I thought it was great! I'm Jeff. What are your names?
#Person2#: I'm Allison and this is Melissa.
#Person1#: Nice to meet both of you.

Summary: Jeff meets Allison and Melissa after the English Evening.


#Person1#: I've been so tired recently. I've been trying, but I don't think I'm up to this job.
#Person2#: You need to take a break, maybe a vacation.
#Person1#: Oh, yes, indeed. I've run out of steam. To be honest, I want to be in a different environment.
#Person2#: Is that so?
#Person1#: Yes, I don't want to be stuck in a rut. I want to move on.
#Person2#: Have you decided?
#Person1#: Yes. I want to get a better job.
#Person2#: Could you tell me why you want to quit?
#Person1#: I quit just because of the dissatisfying salary and the trouble in getting along with my colleagues.
#Person2#: Oh, that's terrible. Do you want to get a higher salary in our company?
#Person1#: I'm afraid not. I've promised my girlfriend. We'll travel southwards to find a job that offers higher pay.
#Person2#: OK, I'd like to say that I've really enjoyed working with you. However, I think you should work harder for your new job and then you can ask for higher pay.
#Person1#: Thank you so much for your advice.
#Person2#: And every best wish for your new job.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# that #Person1# feels tired and wants to get a better job because of dissatisfying salary and bad colleagues' relationship. #Person1# promises #Person1#'s girlfriend to go south to find a job with higher pay, #Person2# gives #Person1# advice and best wish.


#Person1#: Do you have any hobbies? What is it or what are they?
#Person2#: I am interested in watching TV or other relaxing games.
#Person1#: How do you spend your spare time?
#Person2#: I usually read or entertain myself.
#Person1#: What kind of books are you interested in?
#Person2#: My favorite books are those about detectives.
#Person1#: Well, those books are really good. I like them too. How do you entertain yourself?
#Person2#: When it comes to the entertainment, I think I enjoy dancing. There is nothing I like more than modern dance.

Summary: #Person1# asks about #Person2#'s hobbies, how #Person2# spends the spare time, the books #Person2#'s interested in and how does #Person2# entertain.


#Person1#: Welcome to tonight's Legendary Lives. I'm Shirley Morgan. Tonight, we are quite honored to invite David Hopkins, a well known chef with 30 years of cooking experience. Last year, his new book, Secrets in the Kitchen got on a New York Times best seller list for 6 months. Welcome to our program, David.
#Person2#: Hello, Shirley, it's a pleasure to be here.
#Person1#: David, I can't wait to see you uncovered a formulas for dishes. Exploring the How's and why's of cooking. Before that, may I ask you a question? What's the difference between a chef and a cook?
#Person2#: I think cooks generally work at entry level jobs. They work at different places in the kitchen and follow recipes. In contrast, chefs have special training and understand better which food goes well together, so they can invent new recipes.
#Person1#: I see, a chef is the cook, who has completed a professional course while a cook it's basically any person who cooks food. By the way, how do you become a chef?
#Person2#: I am trained. 95% is about professional training and the other 5% is about talent.
#Person1#: Would you mind describing us a day of a chef? We're so curious about that.
#Person2#: Nothing special, I generally go to work 2 hours before service starts. The night before, I've written the lists of all the things we need to prepare the next day. I work in different roles depending on what is needed.
#Person1#: Challenging. How long do you work everyday?
#Person2#: 10 to 12 hours a day.
#Person1#: An almost full time job! Do you have any tips for average cooks, like me?
#Person2#: Cooking involves your passion and creativity. Kitchen is never a place to chop vegetables, and have a quick breakfast. It is good to make food that people really enjoy.
#Person1#: I can't agree with you more. Miracles happen in the kitchen. Thanks for joining us, David.
#Person2#: My pleasure.

Summary: #Person1# welcomes David to attend the program as a well-known chef and asks some questions to him. She asks David what is the difference between a cook and a chef, what is a day for a chef and is there any tips for average cooks. David thinks that cooking should involve passion and creativity.


#Person1#: What's the life expectancy in your country?
#Person2#: I'm not sure, but probably about 75 years. How about in your country?
#Person1#: About 70, I think. This newspaper article talks about the problems of an aging population. It's a problem that will soon affect most of the world.
#Person2#: I heard that the government might need to increase the retirement age, because otherwise there will not be enough workers to support the young and the elderly.
#Person1#: Perhaps we need to have more babies! Tina gave birth to a baby boy yesterday.
#Person2#: Did she? That's great. However, if we have too many children, that will have a bad effect on the enviroment.
#Person1#: How's your son these days?
#Person2#: Oh, he's fine. Kids seem to grow up very quickly nowadays.
#Person1#: He'll be a teenager before you know it! Teenagers are often rebellious! When do you think it is a good age to have children?
#Person2#: I had mine when I was 24. that's a little young. I'd suggest you wait until you are in your late twenties. , or even in your early thirties if you have a good career.
#Person1#: Yes, I think you're right. I'm thinking about having a child, but not just yet.
#Person2#: Is there a big generation gap between parents and their children in you country?
#Person1#: Yes, there is. Teenagers do not want to live traditional lives. They want to go out, have fun, and explore the world. They want to develop their own view of life. Parents usually try to discourage them, but they don't often succeed.
#Person2#: Parents usually give their children more freedom in my country. Sometimes they give them too much freedom.
#Person1#: It's almost impossible to get the right balance. If you are too strict, kids might ignore you. If you are too lenient, they might go wild.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the aging problem is very serious in the world and #Person2# mentions the government might need to increase the retirement age. #Person1# suggests having more babies, which is not a good solution but changes their topic to children and the relationship between children and parents in their countries.


#Person1#: John, do you have a minute?
#Person2#: Oh, hi, Leo. Sure, what's up?
#Person1#: Well, I've been meaning to talk to you about the situation in the office.
#Person2#: But I'm not in there very often. It's so noisy that I can't work.
#Person1#: That's exactly what I'm getting at. We're supposed to be able to do our preparation and marking in that office, but have you noticed? Jack constantly has students coming in to get help with his course. A lot people are going in and out.
#Person2#: Has anybody spoken to him about it?
#Person1#: No, not yet, but someone's going to have to.
#Person2#: We really can't ask him to stop having students come in for help, can we?
#Person1#: No, of course not. But I'm not able to do my work and neither are you.
#Person2#: How about recommending him to use the storage room down the hall?
#Person1#: Oh, that would be too small.
#Person2#: With the cabinets taken out, it might be bigger than it looks.
#Person1#: Come to think of it, you may be on to something. Let's go have a look.
#Person2#: Let's rock n'roll.

Summary: Both John and Leo feel that the office is noisy since Jack constantly has students coming in to ask for help. They decide to recommend Jack to use the storage room down the hall.


#Person1#: Hello. Can I help you, ma'am?
#Person2#: Yes. Could you tell me how to send some money to someone with an account with a bank in Germany?
#Person1#: Well, you can pay by mail, telegraphic or SWIFT transfer. Or you can have a banker's draft and mail it yourself to the beneficiary.
#Person2#: Which is the best way?
#Person1#: It depends on the amount and how fast you want that person to receive the money. A SWIFT transfer is the fastest method but a banker's draft is usually the cheapest. How much do you wanna send?
#Person2#: $ 800.
#Person1#: Why don't you send it by mail payment order?
#Person2#: How long does it take?
#Person1#: About a week.
#Person2#: I don't know. Can I send it more quickly?
#Person1#: Sure. You can have a Telegraphic or a SWIFT transfer.
#Person2#: And how long do those take?
#Person1#: Both a Telegraphic Transfer and a SWIFT transfer will normally be credited to the payee's account within three or four working days, depending on whether the beneficiary's bank is among our correspondent banks or we have to route the transfer through a third bank.
#Person2#: I see. How can I pay by Telegraphic Transfer?
#Person1#: You have to fill out this form, ma'am.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# how to send money to someone with an account with a bank in Germany and recommends a Telegraphic and a SWIFT transfer to send it quickly.


#Person1#: Who are the people in this photo?
#Person2#: Oh, that's my homestay family. I'm going to Australia for a year on an exchange program. And those are the people I'm living with. Those are the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Their daughters' names are Jenny and Cindy, and their son's name is George.
#Person1#: Is that George there?
#Person2#: No, that's Jenny's husband, Charlie. They were just married. George is the one in front.
#Person1#: Good looking man, he's not married?
#Person2#: No. Cindy's not married, either. But Jenny and Charlie are moving to their own house next week. So it won't be as crowded as it looks. I'm leaving for Sydney in a month.
#Person1#: Well, have a great time.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# about the people in the photo who are #Person2#'s homestay family in Australia.


#Person1#: Jane, we are going to have a board meeting next Friday. Will you please arrange it for me?
#Person2#: Certainly, Mr. Robert. But can I have your plan?
#Person1#: Sure. Actually it's a routine board meeting. The things to be discussed are all written here.
#Person2#: Very good. May I keep it? I need it to draw up a notice of the meeting and the agenda.
#Person1#: Go ahead. It's for your reference. While you are at it, make me a special agenda and don't forget to have enough room at the side for notes.
#Person2#: You mean you need a more detailed agenda for yourself?
#Person1#: Exactly. As I am supposed to the chair of the meeting, I don't want it to get out of control.
#Person2#: I see. Ok, then where do you think we will have the meeting?
#Person1#: The conference room on the second floor, is that ok?
#Person2#: Yes, I will see that the room is ready by Friday. And I will check there are enough chairs, and the lighting and air-conditioning are all right.
#Person1#: Good, and please get some water, glasses and ash tray ready as well.
#Person2#: Sure, I will. What about the minutes? Do you think I am responsible for that too?
#Person1#: Definitely. The minutes have to be taken accurately.
#Person2#: But I am not familiar with the members of the board.
#Person1#: Oh, that's easy. I will write you a list of their names. You can make a seating plan with the names and give each one a number.
#Person2#: That's a good idea. All right, I'll withdraw and get down to it if you don't mind.

Summary: Jane is helping Mr. Robert arranging a board meeting in the conference room, saying she will check the room in advance, make him a special agenda and take the minutes accurately, as well as make a seating plan according to a list of names of board members Mr. Robert will write.


#Person1#: Do you drive a car yourself?
#Person2#: Yes, I just bought new car, I drive to work everyday!
#Person1#: Great! When you become new driver, you are better drive as carefully as possible!
#Person2#: Sure, I see safety is most important thing! Accident is awful! I will take your advice!
#Person1#: Besides, traffic signal in downtown area are very annoying, are they?
#Person2#: Yes, definitely! You can't drive freely!
#Person1#: Now, we are out of the town, you can drive freely!
#Person2#: Compare with speaking, yes! But things are not good as you expecting!
#Person1#: Why not?
#Person2#: Can you see that road side help?
#Person1#: Yes, We are going to across real road.
#Person2#: That's right. We have to slow down again. If we haven't meet the passing tree, we have to stop a car away.
#Person1#: What other signs what we see in road area like this?
#Person2#: There are a plenty of signs such as Watch for children!

Summary: #Person2#'s a new driver. #Person1# asks #Person2# to drive freely when they're out of the town but #Person2# still keeps cautious and watches for road signs.


#Person1#: I'll have to make a choice soon about next year. I've been offered a job to work in America. But I've also passed the public servant exam to work in the government of my hometown.
#Person2#: Wow! America? How could you say no?
#Person1#: Well, believe it or not I don't have a burning desire to see the world. I'd much prefer just to stay at home. Anyway it's hard to decide.
#Person2#: Well, I would strongly advise you to think of the future. Working abroad, as much more exciting than working in a small town. You're lucky to have a choice. A lot of people don't.

Summary: #Person1# wants to work in the hometown rather than in America but #Person2# advises #Person1# to think of working abroad.


#Person1#: What do you like to do in your spare time?
#Person2#: I like playing chess.
#Person1#: Do you have any hobbies besides playing chess?
#Person2#: I'm afraid not.
#Person1#: Do you have any hobbies like playing tennis or things like that?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. I like playing basketball.
#Person1#: Can you tell me why you like it?
#Person2#: Because I like the feeling of cooperating with others.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2#'s hobbies. #Person2# likes playing chess and basketball.


#Person1#: Nancy what's wrong with you? You look up it down.
#Person2#: Yes, my credit card bill has just arrived. I'm in debt now.
#Person1#: Well. How much have you overdrawn last month?
#Person2#: 3000 yuan.
#Person1#: 3000 yuan? You have over spent too much.
#Person2#: I have no other choice. 2 friends of mine held birthday parties last month. I spent a lot on the birthday presents.
#Person1#: What about the rest?
#Person2#: Well, some was spent on get-together parties with friends. Some on make up, some on clothes and some on food.
#Person1#: You better change your consumption habit. Otherwise, you will get into the financial trouble soon.
#Person2#: I think so.

Summary: Nancy has 3000 yuan overdraft on birthday presents, parties and daily necessities. #Person1# suggests Nancy change the consumption habit.


#Person1#: have you ever seen Bill Gate's home on the internet?
#Person2#: no. what's it like?
#Person1#: it's got its own library, theatre, swimming pool, and a guest house. The house itself has about ten different rooms that are all hooked up to computers so you can get things done in each room through
#Person2#: would you want to live there?
#Person1#: I think his house is fantastic, but I wouldn't want to live there. You would have to hire one or two people to clean all the rooms in the house, plus a few people to take care of the gardens, and pro
#Person2#: what's your dreamhome like then?
#Person1#: my dream home is actually just a samll cottage in a quite village in England.
#Person2#: would you want to buy an old cottage or build a new one yourself?
#Person1#: old homes are great because they've got character. I think that's important.
#Person2#: it that why you wear second-hand cloths as well? Because they've got character?
#Person1#: no, that's just because I don't have enough money to buy new cloths all the time!
#Person2#: I see. If you lived in an old house, would it be decorated in a modern way?
#Person1#: no, I'd definitely try to restore it to its original state. I love to imagine what it'd be like to live in another time in history and living in a house decorated like it would have been 200 years a

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# discuss Bill Gate's fantastic home but #Person1#'s dream home is a small cottage. #Person1# prefers old homes in an original state because they got characters. #Person1# also corrects #Person2#'s misunderstanding about the reason for wearing second-hand clothes.


#Person1#: I'm going to go shopping for groceries in a little bit.
#Person2#: Why, do we need groceries?
#Person1#: I believe we are all out of food.
#Person2#: Do you know what to get?
#Person1#: I don't know what we need.
#Person2#: Why don't you go and check the refrigerator?
#Person1#: I would appreciate it if you would do that for me.
#Person2#: Why don't you just get the basics?
#Person1#: What do you mean?
#Person2#: Eggs, milk, bread. Things like that.
#Person1#: Go make that list.
#Person2#: Sure, no problem.

Summary: #Person1#'s going shopping for groceries but doesn't know what to buy. #Person2# suggests getting the basics.


#Person1#: Guess what? I found a summer job.
#Person2#: That's great. Anything interesting?
#Person1#: Yes, working at an amusement park.
#Person2#: Wow, that sounds great.
#Person1#: So have you found anything?
#Person2#: Nothing yet, but I have a couple of choices. One is working as an assistant in a hospital mostly answering phones or I can get a job as a gardener again.
#Person1#: Being an assistant sounds more interesting. You'd have better hours and it's probably not as much work.
#Person2#: Yeah, but gardner earns more than an assistant.

Summary: #Person1# finds a summer job working at an amusement park. #Person2# hesitates to be an assistant or a gardenner.


#Person1#: What is the schedule for tomorrow?
#Person2#: Let me see, a meeting with bill lines at 10:00 in the morning and all the paperwork is ready, and then a trip to the national lab at 3:00 in the afternoon and at 7:00 in the evening we'll have dinner with Mr. Cooper manager of LG company.
#Person1#: Another busy day, but please don't plan anything for Saturday. I'm going to a basketball match with my family.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the schedule for tomorrow. #Person1# asks #Person2# not to plan anything for Saturday.


#Person1#: I have a suggestion. Why don't we go to a ETV and sing?
#Person2#: A ETV? Are you serious? ETV?
#Person1#: Yes, why not? Don't you like ETV?
#Person2#: I don't know. I never went to one.
#Person1#: Never? Really? I'm surprised.
#Person2#: Many Americans have never gone to a ETV. It's not an American thing to do.
#Person1#: But there are a lot of Kts in this town. There's one just two blocks from here.
#Person2#: OK, let's go.

Summary: #Person1# suggests going to ETV, but #Person2# never went to one. So they'll go to Kts.


#Person1#: Hi, John. What brings you to town?
#Person2#: Hi, Mary. Lily wanted me to buy her some things for the party.
#Person1#: What do you think of the traffic today?
#Person2#: It's pretty bad.
#Person1#: Yeah. You can say that again. It's noisy too.
#Person2#: I am glad I did not drive a car.

Summary: John comes to town and thinks the traffic is bad today.


#Person1#: I want to join in the bus tour.
#Person2#: Yes, sir.
#Person1#: Will the bus pick up the tourists from hotels?
#Person2#: Of course. You don't have to come here and we will drop you off at your hotel.
#Person1#: Woo, that's quite convenient.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# how to join the bus tour.


#Person1#: Oh dear, I'm late. I have to be in the office by 8am.
#Person2#: Oh really what's happening?
#Person1#: Well there is an important meeting with a new client.
#Person2#: Ok but you must stay calm. Do you want me to give you a lift?
#Person1#: Oh, you don't have to do that but it would be a great help.
#Person2#: Ok, wait one minute. I must remember where I left the keys.

Summary: #Person1# is late and #Person2# offers to give #Person1# a lift.


#Person1#: They don't really think you took it, do they?
#Person2#: I don't know. I just know I've never been asked so many questions in my life.
#Person1#: How many of them were there?
#Person2#: Three. But there was one of them who kept asking really stupid questions.
#Person1#: Like what?
#Person2#: Oh, he wanted to know what time I got up this morning and if I bad a bath or a shower you know, things like that.
#Person1#: What on earth has that got to do with some money disappearing?
#Person2#: I've no idea. Oh yes, and the most ridiculous thing. He asked me what I had for breakfast this morning.
#Person1#: Oh well, that's it. They obviously think you're a desperate criminal and you have to steal to eat. I should think you'll get thirty years.
#Person2#: Hmm. Thank you very much.

Summary: #Person2# complains that #Person2# has been asked so many stupid questions after some money disappeared. #Person1# thinks people may regard #Person2# as a desperate criminal.


#Person1#: You've been working constantly. Don't push yourself so hard, or you'll end up in the hospital.
#Person2#: I'm not always as busy as I am right now. It'll slow down in about half a month.
#Person1#: So what are you busy with?
#Person2#: Some new stories. I must finish them in a week and the editors are all waiting.
#Person1#: But you will need to take a break once in awhile. Let's go to the gym tonight.
#Person2#: Tonight? I'm afraid I can't. I must write at least 5000 words tonight.
#Person1#: We won't stay there for too long. Besides you may get inspired there.
#Person2#: You're right. So what do you usually do at the gym?
#Person1#: Run and swim. Those are my favorite sports. Sometimes I go to a dance class there, though I'm not very good at it. What about you?
#Person2#: I like running and swimming too, but I don't dance. Sometimes I like to lift weights.
#Person1#: When do you think we should get going?
#Person2#: How about 6:30 PM? We can return at about 9:00 PM and then I can go on writing.
#Person1#: That's fine with me.

Summary: #Person2#'s working on some new stories. #Person1# feels #Person2#'s working too hard and invites #Person2# to the gym. #Person1# and #Person2# both like running and swimming and they'll get going at 6:30 pm.


#Person1#: Hello, Jenny. What are you doing here?
#Person2#: Hello, Mark! This is my daughter, Sarah. It's the school holidays so we're shopping now--- we're not sure what to do after that.
#Person1#: Well, there's a show for children this afternoon in the library where I work.
#Person2#: Oh'? What time is it at?
#Person1#: It starts at two and finishes at three thirty. It's only a quarter past one now. Do you think Sarah would like that?
#Person2#: How much is a ticket?
#Person1#: Well, it's one pound fifty for adults and seventy-five pence for children. Programmes are twenty-five pence.
#Person2#: And does your library run a reading course in the holidays?
#Person1#: Yes, and if children under ten, like Sarah, read four books in six weeks, we give them something to take home.
#Person2#: What, like a book?
#Person1#: Well, this year it's a pen, but sometimes it's a book or a school bag. Meet me after the show and I'll give you some more detail.
#Person2#: Thanks. See you later then.

Summary: Mark recommends the show in the library to Jenny and her daughter. Jenny asks about the reading course. Mark will give her more details after the show.


#Person1#: Julia, will you be my wife?
#Person2#: I'm sorry, Steven.
#Person1#: Please, Julia, I have made proposal to you five times. I really want to share the rest of my life with you.
#Person2#: I know. But I'm not ready for married life yet.
#Person1#: Julia, I really love you. I hope I can stay with you no matter you are happy or sad in future.
#Person2#: Your way does touch my heart.
#Person1#: So, will you marry me?
#Person2#: I want to think of it for some time.

Summary: Steven has made his proposal to Julia five times, but Julia still wants to think more.


#Person1#: Have you been to exhibitions in your spare time?
#Person2#: Yes, a lot of times. I like exhibitions-exhibitions about famous people: dancers, actors, you know?
#Person1#: Mm, and what about a folk concert? Have you ever been to one of them?
#Person2#: No. I don't like folk music very much.
#Person1#: What about the opera?
#Person2#: No, never. I don't really like the opera. It is a bit too heavy for me.
#Person1#: A pop concert?
#Person2#: Yes. I saw Madonna once. She was fantastic-she is a really great dancer.
#Person1#: And have you ever been to the theater?
#Person2#: Yes I have.

Summary: #Person2# has been to exhibitions, the concert of Madonna and the theater, but doesn't like folk music and opera.


#Person1#: I'd like this letter to go by EMS. What's the rate?
#Person2#: $7.65 for up to 2 pounds.
#Person1#: Thank you. I hear the EMS is the next day service. Is that true?
#Person2#: Well, it's true within America, but now you are in Beijing. The letter has to go through customs and get registered there. Anyway, it's faster and safer than ordinary mail.
#Person1#: Then how long will it take to get to New York?
#Person2#: It depends. Usually 3 to 5 days.
#Person1#: I see. How much does that come to?
#Person2#: That'll be $15.30.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the letter sent by EMS takes 3 to 5 days from Beijing to New York.


#Person1#: Only one. But I wanted to make sure I'd get it.
#Person2#: Yeah, I really wanted that Chanel bag, too. But just in case you should bid low.
#Person1#: But there are only two more days until the bidding closes!
#Person2#: I bid on a Chanel watch at the last minute, and got it sixty percent off!
#Person1#: Oh... I'm such a newbie. But at least I'm sure I'll get that tennis racket.
#Person2#: Don't count on it, Babe. eBay is always full of surprises.
#Person1#: Well... guess how low the bidding starts on the tennis racket?

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about their biddings on eBay.


#Person1#: Do you have any seats available?
#Person2#: Yes. This way please.
#Person1#: What's the special today?
#Person2#: I recommend our New English Pizza.
#Person1#: Then give me a large one and an egg drop soup.
#Person2#: Okay. Wait a minute please.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# to order #Person1#'s meal.


#Person1#: Excuse me, Mr. Li. I have something to discuss with you.
#Person2#: I'm in a bit of a hurry, Ms. Liu. Can you wait for a minute?
#Person1#: I would really appreciate it if we could talk for a few minutes now. It's about the overtime you've asked me to put in.
#Person2#: All right. What's the problem?
#Person1#: I really can't work overtime. Because my husband has been ill recently, I must take care of him.
#Person2#: I'm sorry to hear that. Take good care of your husband. I'll find another one to replace you.

Summary: Ms. Liu tells Mr. Li the reason she cannot work overtime. Mr. Li promises to find someone to replace her.


#Person1#: Is there anything wrong with your food this evening, Miss?
#Person2#: Sorry to trouble you. But I don't think this fish is fresh. It actually tastes a bit off.
#Person1#: Sorry, Miss. I'll place it immediately, can I get you another drink, or you wait?
#Person2#: No, please don't do that. I'd just like to return it.
#Person1#: I'm sorry, Miss, but I'm afraid we can't do that. You'll order something else instead. I'd love to suggest the steak, it's the special today, and quite tasty.
#Person2#: Ok, then please bring me the steak mediun-rare, thank you.
#Person1#: Ok, Miss. I hope you enjoy the rest of your dinner.

Summary: #Person2# wants a return as the fish tastes a bit off, but #Person1# tells her she can only have a replacement. So #Person2# orders the steak medium-rare under #Person1#'s recommendation.


#Person1#: We still have one more day to go before we return home. What will we see tomorrow?
#Person2#: No idea. We've enjoyed both the natural scenery and the city sights. What else is there to see?
#Person1#: What about a factory tour?
#Person2#: You mean visit a factory?
#Person1#: Yes. I heard there's a lager motor company nearby which is open to the public every weekend. We can go to see how a car is manufactured and learn more about the automobile industry.
#Person2#: Good idea! I've always been interested in that. How much is the entrance fee?
#Person1#: I'm not sure, but as far as I know, most factory tours are free. They are sponsored by the company providing the tour.
#Person2#: Really? What do the companies do that for?
#Person1#: I believe most of them think it as good public relations. They can promote their product and make their company better-known.
#Person2#: Oh, ISEE. So factory tours are good for companies as well as visitors.
#Person1#: Exactly.
#Person2#: Do we need an appointment beforehand?
#Person1#: I'll call the tourist information centre to check.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about where to visit before returning home and they decide on a factory tour. They think factory tours are good for companies as well as visitors.


#Person1#: There is a problem in my apartment.
#Person2#: What is it?
#Person1#: A pipe broke in my wall, and water is leaking.
#Person2#: Is the water causing any damage?
#Person1#: Yes, it's creating mildew on the walls.
#Person2#: I won't be able to fix the pipe until tomorrow.
#Person1#: I can call a plumber to fix it right now.
#Person2#: I'll do it for you.
#Person1#: Well, you can't do it until tomorrow, and I need it fixed now.
#Person2#: That's true.
#Person1#: You're okay with me calling someone?
#Person2#: I'm all right with that.

Summary: A pipe broke in #Person1#'s wall. #Person2# won't be able to fix it until tomorrow, so #Person1# will call a plumber to fix it now.


#Person1#: What's the matter, dear?
#Person2#: Something awful happened. We went to the Portobello Road, and someone stole my handbag.
#Person1#: Oh, dear. Did you lose a lot of money?
#Person2#: No. Only a few pounds. But my passport was in the bag. That'what I'm really worry about.
#Person1#: You must tell the embassy about it. And I think they'll issue you with a new one.
#Person2#: I'd better go tomorrow.
#Person1#: No. But you mustn't leave it too long. Did you report it the police?
#Person2#: No. I couldn't find a policeman.
#Person1#: Well. You must report that it's been stolen. And give the police description of your bag. You'd better go to the local police station tomorrow morning.
#Person2#: Yes. I'll do it tomorrow.
#Person1#: And Lisa.
#Person2#: Yes?
#Person1#: Don't be too upset. It's not the end of the world.

Summary: Lisa tells #Person1# she's upset because her bag with her passport was stolen. #Person1# suggests she report to the police and tell the embassy about it.


#Person1#: Is your turn, Sir. I ' m sorry that you have to wait. Saturday is busy day for us.
#Person2#: I suppose so. Hair cut, please.
#Person1#: How so you want to your hair cut? Any particular way?
#Person2#: I'd just like to trim. Don't cut too short.
#Person1#: Yes, sir. How about the sideburns?
#Person2#: I think they need a little trimming.
#Person1#: Can I use the clippers?
#Person2#: No, don't use them, please.
#Person1#: All right, Sir.
#Person2#: Would you trim off a bit there, about the ear.
#Person1#: Don't you think it needs about a little taken off and talk to.
#Person2#: oh, yes. That would be better.
#Person1#: About like this?
#Person2#: No, not that much. And yes, that'fine.
#Person1#: Shave also, Sir.
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: How do you want to your mustache trimmed?

Summary: #Person2# wants to get a haircut and tells #Person1# his requirements on trimming off certain parts. After the haircut #Person2# asks #Person1# to shave as well.


#Person1#: How did you do on the test, Jane? You look very pleased with yourself when you left class. So I guess you must have done quite well.
#Person2#: Unfortunately that was mostly overconfidence, Frank. I studied hard and I was very relaxed when I took the test. But I didn't get a very good grade.
#Person1#: Oh, no! what happened?
#Person2#: I turned the pages too quickly and I missed a page. I thought it was a three-page test. I didn't even see page 4.
#Person1#: That's a shame! Have you talked to the teacher about it?
#Person2#: I hadn't thought of that. I guess it couldn't hurt.

Summary: Jane and Frank are talking about the test. Jane missed page 4 and didn't get a good grade.


#Person1#: I like that picture you put up on the wall yesterday.
#Person2#: Thank you. It's a photo that I took on my vacation last year.
#Person1#: You took it yourself?
#Person2#: I've been taking pictures for years.
#Person1#: Sounds interesting. Can I see some more of your pictures?
#Person2#: Yes, certainly. Some of them are just faces of people who interest me.
#Person1#: Do you let them know that you're taking pictures of them?
#Person2#: I try not to. I like people who are going about their business without knowing the camera is there.
#Person1#: I suppose you need a lot of equipment.
#Person2#: Well, I have a dozen cameras, but I use two of them more than the others.

Summary: #Person2# tries not to let people know #Person2# is taking pictures of them because #Person2# likes people who are doing their business without noticing the camera.


#Person1#: I am here to visit Mr. Roger Peterson. He lives in Room 612.
#Person2#: Fine. I need to check your ID card, and you will have to leave those flowers here.
#Person1#: Sorry, I forgot that flowers are not allowed here. What time do visiting hours end?
#Person2#: You can stay until 8:00 p.m. Here is your visitor's pass.

Summary: #Person1# wants to visit Mr. Roger Peterson. #Person2# checks #Person1#'s ID card and tells #Person1# the flowers are not allowed.


#Person1#: Welcome to ABC's Campus Interview Series. I'm David Crystal. Tonight, we shall share the story of Vet, a senior at Lee High School. Vet, what was life like for you as a child?
#Person2#: Life was fun. I was always very loved, even without my father around. I was somewhat of a troublemaker, but I have a lot of good memories to show for it. Being a child was the best time of my life.
#Person1#: How have your childhood years affected who you are today?
#Person2#: I was raised by very strong, supportive people. My mother and sisters have a lot to do with who I am. I also learned many lessons, good and bad, which have made me a strong adult. They have helped me realize what I need to do to be happy. My mother has always been the best person in my life. She has never let me down, and has always been very supportive. Whenever I needed a friend, she was one. My sisters have also been there for me. When my morn was getting her college degree, she would be out late, and my sisters stepped in and played morn. They are my best friends and give me great advice.
#Person1#: What have been some of your biggest trials, and how have you overcome them?
#Person2#: The biggest trial in my life was when I got pregnant sophomore year. It was a new road to travel. I didn't have to get over it, I had to accept it and learn to adapt. Another trial would be trying to get over the love of my life, my baby's father. We were engaged, but things went the other way. I had to learn to love myself more than I loved a man.
#Person1#: Who helped you during your pregnancy?
#Person2#: My morn and sisters were everything I needed them to be-a mother, sister, boyfriend, best friend and father. All my friends were there for me, I could cry to them whenever I needed to. I'm especially thankful for my morn. It was hard for her to deal with two pregnant children at the same time. The dad and his family were also there, which was a blessing
#Person1#: When a bad situation comes up, what do you do?
#Person2#: I try to find the best way to deal with it. I am often faced with issues in my school about my race. It is not easy to keep your temper, but you have to try to understand why people are upset and angry. I try to find a way out without hurting anyone, or. myself.
#Person1#: How has being so small and pregnant affected your body?
#Person2#: It has worn me out. My body is stretched in places I never knew I had. My hips are huge, I won't be a model again anytime soon. Being pregnant so young has emotionally drained me. I have so many things to worry about now, and my emotions are like a roller coaster. One minute I am happy, and the next depressed. I never spend time on my appearance. I'm always focusing on my baby.

Summary: Vet, a senior at Lee High School, share her childhood experience with David Crystal on ABC's Campus Interview Series. She tells David about how she has been affected by her childhood years, her hard time in pregnancy and how she goes through with it with her family and friends' help, and what she would do when confronted with a bad situation.


#Person1#: You're spending a very long time on my hair.
#Person2#: I'm almost done.
#Person1#: I needed you to be done and finished an hour ago.
#Person2#: I'm all done now.
#Person1#: Are you sure you're finished?
#Person2#: I don't understand.
#Person1#: You did a horrible job on my hair.
#Person2#: What's wrong with it?
#Person1#: I don't like anything about it.
#Person2#: I apologize.
#Person1#: That's fine, but I'm not paying for it.
#Person2#: Excuse me? Let's try to work this out, okay?

Summary: #Person1#'s unhappy that #Person2# has spent a long time doing #Person1#'s hair, and #Person1#'s dissatisfied with the result.


#Person1#: Melanie, can you help me with something? We need to finalize the account with the Mexican Embassy and, I need some advice on phrasing this letter correctly in English.
#Person2#: Sure Tracy, let me just get my laptop.
#Person1#: Okay, so. . . To Whom It May Concern, I am writing.
#Person2#: Um, Tracy? I think that's a little too formal. I know you want to be polite but you've already made contact with them, so in English you can be more relaxed in the opening. . .
#Person1#: Okay, more relaxed. Got it. Hey, Sally, what's up? It's Tracy here, just.
#Person2#: Okay Tracy, now it's too relaxed! You've still got to show some respect. How about starting with ' Dear Ms. Cooper, I'm writing to confirm. . . ?
#Person1#: Great, okay. ' Dear Miss Cooper, I'm writing to confirm the final quotation for the full page back cover color advertisement you requested for the spring issue of Voila magazine '.
#Person2#: That's great. . .
#Person1#: ' The final costing, including advert design and production, comes to forty-five thousand six hundred RIB. We want payment ten working days before publication or we will cancel the ad. Thanks for. . . '
#Person2#: Woo, okay, back up a second, Tracy. That's too direct. Can I suggest you say, please note that final payment is due two working weeks before publication? You don't want to offend her.
#Person1#: Oops, okay. You are right. Then I can just end with ' All the best, Tracy '.
#Person2#: Mmmm, maybe, but I'd play it safe and just finish with ' Yours Sincerely '. That's more professional.
#Person1#: Oh, Melanie, you are a life saver, thank you!

Summary: Melanie gives Tracy advice on Tracy's letter. Melanie thinks the start is too formal and some parts are too direct. Tracy takes the suggestions.


#Person1#: Honey, could you help me operate the VD player? It can't play.
#Person2#: Oh, are the connections correct?
#Person1#: I think so.
#Person2#: Let me see. Look! You confused the video frequency with the audio frequency.
#Person1#: I'm too careless.
#Person2#: Can it work now?
#Person1#: No.
#Person2#: So what's the problem? Maybe there is something wrong with the disk.
#Person1#: It's a new disk.
#Person2#: Give it to me.
#Person1#: Here you are.
#Person2#: Uh, the movie of Tom Hanks. I know why it can't play. This is a DVD disk.

Summary: #Person1# wants #Person2# to help to operate the VD player. #Person2# finds the reason why it can't work is it's a DVD disk.


#Person1#: Could you help me to register for a class?
#Person2#: Do you know what class you want to take?
#Person1#: Are there any Psychology classes available?
#Person2#: I believe there are still two Psychology classes open.
#Person1#: On what days are the classes?
#Person2#: There is one class on Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 4.
#Person1#: Can you tell me about the other class?
#Person2#: It's from 10-12 on Monday and Wednesday.
#Person1#: You're positive that these are the only classes left?
#Person2#: These two are the only ones.
#Person1#: The class on Monday and Wednesday will be fine.
#Person2#: Very good.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# register for a Psychology class. #Person1# chooses the class on Monday and Wednesday.


#Person1#: Can you show me some jade, please?
#Person2#: Yes, of course. Do you like a jade necklace?
#Person1#: No, but I do like jade bracelets.
#Person2#: Here are all kinds of jades. Choose whatever you like, please.
#Person1#: Thank you. ( A moment later ) Oh, this one is quite impressive. I'll take it. By the way, do you sell pearl earrings?
#Person2#: Yes. Natural pearls or cultured pearls? We have both kinds.
#Person1#: I wonder which looks more lustrous.
#Person2#: Well, natural pearls are of higher value, but the cultured pearls have equal lustre and are just as beautiful.
#Person1#: Oh, I see. I think I prefer a natural one.

Summary: #Person1# prefers jade bracelets over necklaces. #Person1# chooses one from the options given by #Person2#. #Person1# prefers the natural pearl.


#Person1#: What do you think about all the different diets that people go on?
#Person2#: I don't think dieting is good for you. It's much better to eat a balanced diet and to never get overweight to begin with!
#Person1#: But what do you think about people who are obese? What should they do to lose weight?
#Person2#: They need to eat healthy foods, but they also have to increase the amount of physical exercise every day. They don't have to cut out fattening foods altogether, though.
#Person1#: So you think it's OK for people who are dieting to eat chocolate, don't you?
#Person2#: Sure, they can eat some chocolate. As long as they are exercising and eating mostly healthy foods, there's nothing wrong with having a small dessert.
#Person1#: How about drinking soda?
#Person2#: Many people gain weight by drinking far too much soda. Soda should be treated seriously ; there's simply no nutritional value in it whatsoever.
#Person1#: And have you ever tried taking vitamins?
#Person2#: I used to take vitamins every day, but I don't take them anymore. Vitamins are good as a supplement, but they don't do much good if you don't have a well-balanced diet to start.
#Person1#: How do you know so much about food and dieting?
#Person2#: You might not believe this, but I used to be twice the size that I am now!

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# what obese people should do to lose weight. #Person2# says they need to eat healthy foods with the increase of physical exercise. #Person2# knows much about food and eating because #Person2# used to be twice the size that #Person2#'s now.


#Person1#: So what are you doing for Thanksgiving?
#Person2#: Not much really. It's more of an American tradition, so back home we don't really celebrate it. In fact, I am not even sure of what exactly is being celebrated!
#Person1#: Well you know, it's a time to get together with all your family and be thankful for everything!
#Person2#: Yeah but, how did this holiday come to be?
#Person1#: Well, the first settlers of Massachusetts arrived there because of religious persecution from England and King James. Once in the New World, they befriended an native named Squanto, who taught them how to harvest food from the area such as corn.
#Person2#: And then what did happen?
#Person1#: Well, they had enough harvests for the next winter and celebration . They decided to have a big feast for the natives, giving thanks the land, and everyone for the foods, healthy and new lives.
#Person2#: Interesting! I am amazed how big and delicious thanksgiving dinners are!
#Person1#: Come to my house for Thanksgiving! We are having turkey, pumpkin pie, mashed potatoes with gravy, and lots of stuffing!
#Person2#: Count me in!

Summary: #Person1# asks about #Person2#'s plan for Thanksgiving but #Person2# doesn't celebrate it. Then #Person1# tells #Person2# the history of Thanksgiving and the way people celebrate it. #Person1# invites #Person2# to #Person1#'s house for Thanksgiving dinner.


#Person1#: Tim ' s smiles are interesting.
#Person2#: Yes, they are shy and gentle but very powerful.
#Person1#: You are right. They sweep Nancy off her feet. And now she fell head over heels in love with him.
#Person2#: How wonderful it would be if I had such smiles!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# discuss Tim's powerful smiles.


#Person1#: Do you collect cola cans, Steve?
#Person2#: No. Why do you ask?
#Person1#: You have so many empty cans here.
#Person2#: Well, my mum wants me to keep all the cans, so that we can sell them after a while.
#Person1#: Aha, you are going to make a millionaire of yourself sooner or later with all those cans.
#Person2#: You bet I will. Well, that's not the point. The point is we separate reusable things from other rubbish. We have to pay the dustman for dealing with rubbish, but if we sell him these cans and other reusable material we pay less.
#Person1#: That sounds a clever idea. Now what are reused in China?
#Person2#: Metal, plastic, paper, books and the like.
#Person1#: Just as we do back home in the States.
#Person2#: And to avoid waste, the government is limiting the production of goods that can be used only once, such as bamboo chopsticks. For example, all the fast food boxes should be made of paper instead of non-reusable material.
#Person1#: That will surely be helpful for a clean environment.

Summary: Steve keeps all the cans, so they can pay less to the dustman for dealing with rubbish. Steven tells #Person1# what is reused in China and the government's measures on avoiding waste.


#Person1#: I've received your letter of application and I see your current job is as a sales assistant at Ray Stones book shop? Why have you applied for this position?
#Person2#: Well, I've really enjoyed my work at Ray Stones. I've always been interested in books and usually the customers are really nice. And I like trying to find books for them.
#Person1#: So why do you want to leave?
#Person2#: Because it's quite a small independent book shop. But EI books is a much bigger company. I read on your website. You have over 50 branches now and you're still growing, and I see you also have a website where people can order books.
#Person1#: Well, it's true that we've grown quickly in recent years and it's nice to see you found out about the company. So would you describe yourself as ambitious?
#Person2#: Um... I don't think so, but I'd like to be successful.
#Person1#: And what are some of your main strengths?
#Person2#: Ah, I work hard and I enjoy working with other people and uh, I can solve problems. You can always put your trust in me.
#Person1#: That's good.

Summary: #Person2# used to work as a sales assistant at Ray Stones book shop but now applies for a job at EI books. #Person1# interviews #Person2# and asks #Person2#'s personality and main strengths.


#Person1#: The food looks really delicious.
#Person2#: Sure it is, the wedding ceremony is wonderful, too.
#Person1#: The bride looks so happy today. Are you a friend of Catherine's?
#Person2#: Yes, we were in the same class at college. How about you?
#Person1#: I'm a close friend of David's. How handsome he is in wedding clothes today. Well, may I have your name please?
#Person2#: Jackson. I'm working in Chengdu, but I worked in Wuhan a year ago, and you?
#Person1#: My name is Janet. I'm living in Mianyang. Ah, life in Chengdu, is it exciting?
#Person2#: But the traffic is too heavy. I admire your easy life here.

Summary: Jackson is Catherine's friend and Janet is David's friend. They introduce themselves at Catherine and David's wedding.


#Person1#: What's up? You don't look too good.
#Person2#: Yeah, my head hurts, that's all. I'Ve been in physics class all day. It's killer!
#Person1#: I liked physics. It's all math, really. arcs, curves, velocity, cool stuff.
#Person2#: Yeah, yeah, but today's lesson was all about the creation of the universe.
#Person1#: A physics class about the creation of the universe? That's some pretty unscientific language there. Sounds more religious to me.
#Person2#: It's all religion. Take the theory of the Big Bang. How is it possible that all of the stuff in the universe comes from an explosion? That's no better than Atlas carrying the globe on his back or African myths about turtles and stuff.
#Person1#: Turtles? Whatever. . . Look, all that's required for the creation of matter an imbalance of particles and anti-particles. At least, that's what the math says.
#Person2#: Math, sheath. What's the evidence?
#Person1#: There is evidence! You know Edwin Hubble? He's the guy who in the early twentieth century was the first scientist to measure the drift of matter in the universe, thus advancing notions of an expanding universe. What would it be expanding from? Well, the Big Bang. . . DUH!
#Person2#: Anyway, it's just a theory. Why do people go around touting theories? Where's the scientific rigor in that?
#Person1#: Dude, don't equivocate. A theory only becomes a theory after withstanding rigorous testing. You slept through class, didn't you?

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# discuss the creation of the universe. #Person2# thinks the theory of the Big Bang sounds religious and cannot understand how the universe comes from an explosion. #Person1# explains the imbalance of particles and anti-particles and provides the evidence.


#Person1#: Hi, Mary. I haven't seen you in ages! I heard that you and Daniel are getting married on August 8th, the opening day of the 2008 Olympic Games. Is it true?
#Person2#: Yes, it is. We've been dating for over 7 years. We have decided to get married on a special day and we think August 8th, 2008 is a red-letter day.
#Person1#: Good for you! It sounds like you've done a lot of planning in a very short time.
#Person2#: Yes, there is a lot of to be taken care of---wedding photos, wedding dress, catering, transport, hotel, etc...
#Person1#: Is everything ready now?
#Person2#: Almost. The only thing that isn't ready is the hotel. As a lot of people have chosen that day to get married, it is hard to find a hotel that isn't too expensive.
#Person1#: Have you tried The Peninsula Palace Beijing? My wedding reception was held there and they did an excellent job.
#Person2#: Yes, we called, but it is booked up. The only choice is the Regent Beijing but we haven't made up our minds yet.
#Person1#: It's an excellent hotel. A friend of mine had her wedding reception there and said it was perfect, though very expensive.
#Person2#: That's why we want to have a look at other hotels. We don ' t want to spend too much on an extravagant wedding reception.
#Person1#: I guess you're right. I can help you ask other hotels. I am sure there are probably some available.
#Person2#: Thank you.
#Person1#: My pleasure.

Summary: Mary tells #Person1# that she and Daniel are getting married on August 8th, 2008. But they haven't decided on the hotel for their wedding reception. #Person1# promises to help them.


#Person1#: Emily, what are your plans for this weekend? Andrew and I have decided to go skating this Saturday. Do you want to join us?
#Person2#: Sounds interesting. I'd like to, but Sally and I have already made plans. We're going to watch a movie this Sunday. I plan to look up information about the movie on the Internet on Saturday.
#Person1#: Cool. What is the name of the movie?
#Person2#: Beauty and the Beast. Emma Watson plays the lead role Bell. She is one of my favorite actresses.
#Person1#: I once saw the 1991 movie Beauty and the Beast. It is great.
#Person2#: Yeah. Actually, the story is adapted from a French fairy tale by Beaumont. I've read that there are some French expressions in the movie.
#Person1#: Wow. You have learned much about the movie. Sounds great. You got me wanting to see it.
#Person2#: So do you want to join us and enjoy the wonderful story on Sunday?
#Person1#: Yes, I do. I will ask Andrew if he would like to.
#Person2#: Alright. Then please tell me ahead of time, so that I can book the tickets online in advance.
#Person1#: Sure, I will let you know by Saturday evening.
#Person2#: OK.

Summary: #Person1# invites Emily to go skating with #Person1# and Andrew but Sally and Emily have already decided to watch a movie. They talk about the movie and #Person1# feels like watching the movie, too.


#Person1#: Here is your room. I hope you like it.
#Person2#: Looks not bad.
#Person1#: The room is away from traffic noise.
#Person2#: Yes, It's pleasantly quiet here.
#Person1#: Here's the bath.
#Person2#: Where can we have our laundry done?
#Person1#: There's a bag in the bathroom. Just put your laundry in it.
#Person2#: Does the hotel run its own laundry service?
#Person1#: We do, as most hotels do.
#Person2#: I see. Is the telephone on the table good for outside calls?
#Person1#: There is house phone only. But you can ask the operator for city calls.
#Person2#: Can I get a city map at the hotel?
#Person1#: Yes. Shall I get one for you? Just push the button over there if you need anything.

Summary: #Person1# introduces the hotel service to #Person2#, including laundry service and telephone service.


#Person1#: How long will it take to learn English? Will I be able to take other courses next semester or will English take up all of my time?
#Person2#: It's hard to say. Language isn't like other studies.
#Person1#: You mean I could finish this course and still not know English? You'Ve got to be kidding!
#Person2#: I'm not kidding. Learning a language is a question of forming language habits and that takes time.
#Person1#: So do we have to stay in this English class forever?
#Person2#: No. You just have to stay here long enough to get some orientation. Then you go on practicing and learning outside. A lot of learning depends on your personal motivation.
#Person1#: So it's really the same story. Practice, practice, practice and more practice is the only way to learn a language.
#Person2#: You said it.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# it is hard to say how long it will take to learn English and learning a language requires lots of practice.


#Person1#: Hi, Michael, how's it going?
#Person2#: Well, things are all right.
#Person1#: I heard you got a new roommate. What's he like?
#Person2#: Yeah, Bob moved in last week. He is a nice guy and so far everything is cool except this girlfriend.
#Person1#: Oh? What's wrong with his girlfriend?
#Person2#: She came over last weekend. She is a nice girl but there's something about her voice that really creeps me out. I tried to smile and be polite, but the whole time all I could think was 'what's wrong with your voice? '
#Person1#: Well, I guess it might take some time to get used to.
#Person2#: I doubt it. Last time was an oral train wreck. Listening to her talk is like chewing tin foil.
#Person1#: Oh come on, it's not that bad.
#Person2#: No, it's so much worse. And tonight they invited me out to dinner. I really have no idea how I'm going to pull it off.
#Person1#: Rough. Maybe you can do the most of the talking.
#Person2#: That's the plan.
#Person1#: Good luck.

Summary: Michael tells #Person1# about his new roommate Bob. Michael thinks listening to his girlfriend's talk is like chewing tin foil. #Person1# advises him to do the most of the talking in tonight's dinner.


#Person1#: Did you grab everything from the car? We should check before we leave this area. We have a long day of hiking ahead of us.
#Person2#: Yes, I did it already. Where should we go now?
#Person1#: We're going up to the top part of the mountain.
#Person2#: Is that where we get the tickets?
#Person1#: Yeah, it's about a 20-minute walk from here.
#Person2#: That's not so bad.
#Person1#: Just wait till we get the tickets. It's a 3-hour hike from there to the top.
#Person2#: How far is the lake from the top?
#Person1#: Another 40 minutes, we can have lunch at the top or down by the water.
#Person2#: We had a late breakfast, so I can wait. I'm excited to see this lake. The guidebook says it changes color throughout the year.
#Person1#: That's true, in the fall and winter, it's skyblue because of the light reflecting off tiny pieces of ice in the lake. At this time of year. It turns green because of the plants that grow under the water.
#Person2#: That's so cool, it's a good thing I brought my camera.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are waiting to get the tickets and it'll take 3 hours to hike from there to the top. They are excited to see the lake that changes color throughout the year.


#Person1#: Excuse me, Sir, May I have the time, please?
#Person2#: Beg your pardon?
#Person1#: Er. . . I'd like to know what time it is now.
#Person2#: Oh, Let me see. . . It's three forty-five. Er. . . wait, My watch is five minutes fast. So it should be three forty
#Person1#: Thank you. By the way, what day is today?
#Person2#: Today is Friday. Are you new in Beijing?
#Person1#: Yes, I've just come from the States, yesterday in fact. I'm still a bit confused about the time.
#Person2#: Welcome to Beijing. This is my business card. I'm an engineer. If you need any help in Beijing, just give me a call.
#Person1#: Oh, that's very nice of you. I don't want to sound pushy, but I still l have one more question.
#Person2#: Go ahead.
#Person1#: What's the date today?
#Person2#: It's October the 1st, our National Day. I'd like to talk some more, but I've got to get going now. It was nice talking to you, though.
#Person1#: Yeah, it was nice to meet you. Hope I run into you again sometime.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# the time and the date because #Person1# is new in Beijing. #Person2# gives #Person1# #Person2#'s business card so that #Person1# can contact #Person2# when needs help.


#Person1#: Does she make any sense to you?
#Person2#: No. It's all Greek to me.
#Person1#: She's speaking French, not Greek.
#Person2#: I know that. I mean I couldn't understand her at all.
#Person1#: Me neither. All I have to do is study French hard.
#Person2#: I wish you the best of luck.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that a girl is all Greek to #Person2# means #Person2# couldn't understand her at all.


#Person1#: I hate to go outside.
#Person2#: Me too.
#Person1#: Why do you hate to go outside?
#Person2#: I meet too many jerks.
#Person1#: I agree.
#Person2#: This city is full of jerks.
#Person1#: Rude people are everywhere.
#Person2#: But what can you do?
#Person1#: You can yell at them.
#Person2#: And they will yell back at you.
#Person1#: Yelling doesn't do any good.
#Person2#: No. The best thing to do is just stay home.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# hate to go outside. They think the city is full of jerks and rude people.


#Person1#: I think I need a new notebook.
#Person2#: Why? Is there some new, cool computer out on the market?
#Person1#: You bet there is. Feast your eyes on this puppy!
#Person2#: That's a notebook?
#Person1#: Believe it!
#Person2#: It looks more like a toy, or a cool briefcase!

Summary: #Person1# shows a cool notebook but #Person2# thinks it's like a briefcase.


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

Summary: #Person1# feels much better now and tells the doctor that #Person1# wants to go home. #Person2# gives #Person1# some advice and will send #Person1# home tomorrow.


#Person1#: What do you think of smoking?
#Person2#: It's harmful. Not only for yourself but for others.
#Person1#: What in your opinion can be done to stop smoking?
#Person2#: Stop producing cigarettes.
#Person1#: But that'll affect the national economy.
#Person2#: That's right. But I don't think there are better ways.
#Person1#: How about printing a warning on each cigarette packet?
#Person2#: Maybe it can take effect.

Summary: #Person1# suggests printing warnings on cigarette packets. #Person2# thinks it may take effect.


#Person1#: Parcel Express, good morning! How can I help you?
#Person2#: Good morning. I'm thinking of sending a parcel to New York next week. Can you tell me what the procedure is, please?
#Person1#: Certainly. When you ring us, we need the following information. The invoice address: that's probably your address, isn't it? And then, the pickup address. That's different. And the contact phone number.
#Person2#: Just a moment. I'm taking notes. Phone number, right.
#Person1#: Then we need the full name, address and phone number of the person you are sending the parcel to.
#Person2#: Ok, anything else?
#Person1#: Yes, the weight and dimensions of the parcel. That's height, weight and length. And the value of the goods and full description.
#Person2#: Value, description.
#Person1#: Yes, but don't seal the parcel. You need to leave it open so that the driver can check the contents when he collects it. After the recent bombing, the airline said that we'd have to check all parcels. They told us we had to do it.
#Person2#: Fine. Now last question. How long will the parcel take to get to New York?
#Person1#: One to two working days. There are daily flights at midday. And if we collect the parcel from you at 10:15 then your parcel catches that flight and it will arrive in 24 hours.
#Person2#: Right. Thank you very much. You've been very helpful.
#Person1#: Not at all. Goodbye.
#Person2#: Goodbye.

Summary: #Person2# is thinking of sending a parcel to New York next week. #Person1# introduces the procedure and tells #Person2# the delivery will take one to two working days.


#Person1#: 7286712
#Person2#: Hello, Susan's speaking, may I speak to Judy please?
#Person1#: I'm afraid she is not here at the moment. I am her brother, shall I take a massage?
#Person2#: Yes, you see, Judy and I plan to play table tennis tomorrow, but my cousin has broken my bat, I think Judy has an extra one, so please ask her to bring it for me.
#Person1#: So, Susan called, her table tennis bat broke, hope Judy bring an extra one.
#Person2#: Yes, thank you, er.... One more thing, I lent her a book a couple of weeks ago, I think she has probably forgotten it all together, could you possibly ask her to bring along that book as well.
#Person1#: Ok, bring along Susan's book.
#Person2#: Thank you very much!
#Person1#: Bye!

Summary: Judy's brother takes a message for Susan. Susan wants Judy to bring an extra table tennis bat and Susan's book.


#Person1#: We have reservations for two at your restaurant tonight.
#Person2#: Yes, What can I do for you, sir?
#Person1#: I'm calling to see if I can request a specific table.
#Person2#: I can try to arrange that for you.
#Person1#: I proposed to my wife in your restaurant and I would like the same table if I can.
#Person2#: Can you describe for me, where you were sitting?
#Person1#: It was a little table by the bay windows overlooking the wharf.
#Person2#: You're in luck. We still have that little table.

Summary: #Person1# wants to request a special table and #Person2# helps to arrange it for #Person1#.


#Person1#: I would like to purchase some meat.
#Person2#: What kind of meat would you like to get today?
#Person1#: First off, I'm going to need a pound of ground beef.
#Person2#: A pound of ground beef is $2. 48.
#Person1#: That's perfect.
#Person2#: What else will you be needing?
#Person1#: I'm also going to need three pounds of chicken breasts.
#Person2#: The chicken breasts cost $4. 05 per pound.
#Person1#: What's the total price for the chicken?
#Person2#: It's going to be $12. 15.
#Person1#: Okay, I think that will be all for me today.

Summary: #Person1# buys some ground beef and some chicken breasts with #Person2#'s assistance.


#Person1#: Next please. Hello. How can I help you?
#Person2#: I'd like to buy a ticket for New York.
#Person1#: Would you like one way or round trip?
#Person2#: Round trip.
#Person1#: When will you be leaving?
#Person2#: When does the next plane leave?
#Person1#: In about 2 hours.
#Person2#: I'd like a ticket for that flight please.
#Person1#: First class or coach?
#Person2#: Coach.
#Person1#: OK, let me check availability. I'm sorry. Tickets for that flight are sold out.
#Person2#: How about the one after that?
#Person1#: Let me see. Yes, that one still has seats available. Would you like me to reserve a seat for you?
#Person2#: Yes, please.
#Person1#: That'll be 120 dollars.
#Person2#: OK.
#Person1#: Thank you, here's your change.

Summary: #Person2# buys a round trip air ticket to New York with #Person1#'s assistance.


#Person1#: Where do you want to go, Madam?
#Person2#: Hilton Hotel, please. Brrr! It's cold, eh? I'm freezing.
#Person1#: Come in. San Francisco is usually cold in winter, you know. It's often very rainy, which makes the weather colder and it sometimes....
#Person2#: Well, it gets very hot in summer, doesn't it?
#Person1#: Not really. It gets warm in July and August. That's the best time to visit the city. Uh, oh. Here comes the rain!
#Person2#: It's raining hard. By the way, how long does it take to reach the hotel, do you think?
#Person1#: About half an hour if there is no traffic jam. Would you like to listen to some light music?
#Person2#: That would be lovely.

Summary: #Person1# drives #Person2# to Hilton Hotel. They talk about the weather in San Francisco. #Person1# tells #Person2# it takes about half an hour to reach the hotel.


#Person1#: Hello, Mary. How are you today? I heard you weren't well last week.
#Person2#: I'm much better now. Thank you.
#Person1#: What was the matter? Nothing serious I hope.
#Person2#: Oh, no. I had a bad cold and had to stay in bed for two days.
#Person1#: I'm glad you're better. Anyway, I hope it was the last cold of winter and not the first cold of summer. What about your friend, Ann? I hear she is ill, too.
#Person2#: She was ill. But she'll be all right now. I think she caught my cold.
#Person1#: Everybody seems to have one now. I expect it's the sudden change of weather. One day hot and the next day cold.
#Person2#: And very windy, too. That's why I'm wearing a sweater today. What do you think of it? Pretty, isn't it
#Person1#: It certainly is. It must cost a lot. Where did you find it?
#Person2#: Oh, I got it as a sale. It was quite cheap.
#Person1#: Really! Well, Mary, I must say, it suits you very well. What a pity we men can't wear beautiful sweaters!
#Person2#: Never mind. Let's go and buy one like it to send to your sister Linda in America.
#Person1#: That's very kind of you, Mary. I'm really thinking of sending her a present.

Summary: Mary got a cold last week but feels better now. #Person1# thinks it is because of the sudden change of weather that many people get a cold. #Person1# likes the sweater of Mary and will go and buy one.


#Person1#: Are you new here?
#Person2#: Yes. It's my first day. My name is Monica Marten.
#Person1#: I'm Wilson Leach. That's my order form you're working on.
#Person2#: I just finished it. Do you want to fax it to the head office?
#Person1#: That would be great. Do you know how to use the fax machine?
#Person2#: Sure, I can send it right now.
#Person1#: Oh, Monica. I need to make some phone calls to China and Mexico.
#Person2#: What can I do to help?
#Person1#: Well, I'm OK calling China. The problem is that I can't speak any Spanish. Can you?
#Person2#: No problem. I studied it at college. You just have to tell me what to say.
#Person1#: That's really good. By the way, what's your typing speed?
#Person2#: I can type about 70 words a minute.

Summary: Monica helps Wilson fax an order to the head office. Wilson needs to make calls to China and Mexico and Monica'll help him with Spanish.