#Person1#: Tell me about yourself and your past experience.
#Person2#: I have worked as an executive secretary for 5 years, first for trading companies, and now I am working for a trust company. I interact well with peers, clients, administrators and bosses. I thrive on challenge and work well in high-stress environments.
#Person1#: How are your typing and shorthand skills?
#Person2#: I can type 100 Chinese words a minute and take dictation in English at 150 words a minute.
#Person1#: Can you operate computers skillfully?
#Person2#: Yes, I can. I have received some special trainning in computers. Besides I am good at operating common office machines, such as fax machines and duplicating machines.
#Person1#: Sometimes we are very busy and need to work overtime. How do you feel about that?
#Person2#: That's all right. But could you tell me how often and how many hours I should work overtime?
#Person1#: It just depends. If we have important visiting delegations, you have to stay with us. It's not unusual.
#Person2#: Mr. Smith, I's like to ask you a question.
#Person1#: OK, please.
#Person2#: What specific duties would I perform if I am hired?
#Person1#: Nothing different from a secretary's common responsibilities. However, you know, our company is an international trade-oriented company, can you handle English papers and write English correspondence?
#Person2#: Yes. I specialized in English secretary studies at college and that's one of the main parts of my present job.
#Person1#: What are your salary expectations?
#Person2#: I really need more information about the job before we start to discuss salary. Maybe you could tell me what is budgeted for the position.
#Person1#: The starting monthly salary would be $, 000, with rises after the half year according to your competence.
#Person2#: I think it's acceptable and I really like the job. And when can I know the decision?
#Person1#: We'll inform you of our final decision by early July. Do you have any other questions?
#Person2#: No. Thank you for the time.

Summary: #Person1# gives #Person2# a job interview, asking about #Person2#'s past working experience, computer skills, and English competence. #Person2# inquires about the detailed job responsibilities. #Person2# is satisfied with the proposed salary and will get the decision by early July.


#Person1#: I have read your notice on the wall so I come to see if there is anything I need.
#Person2#: Well take your time. There are so many things to sell.
#Person1#: How much is the desk?
#Person2#: $7.
#Person1#: The goods in the yard sale are really cheap. I will take it.

Summary: #Person1# buys a desk from #Person2# and thinks it's cheap.


#Person1#: is that your rabbit?
#Person2#: yes, I just adopted her from the humane society this weekend.
#Person1#: that's good of you. why did you decide to get a rabbit.
#Person2#: well, i wanted to get a pet that wouldn't disturb the neighbors. at the same time, I wanted a pet that would be affectionate.
#Person1#: rabbits aren't usually that affectionate, are they?
#Person2#: if you cuddle them a lot when they are very young, they can be just as affectionate as dogs or cats.
#Person1#: i didn't know that. Are rabbits difficult to take care of?
#Person2#: not really. I went to the veterinarian to get her vaccinated and she told me that all I needed to do was to make sure to trim its nails from time to time, to give her food and water, and to clean its
#Person1#: that sounds pretty easy. Do rabbits make your house smell?
#Person2#: No, rabbits aren't very stinky. As long as your clean the cage on a regular basis, it's not too bad.
#Person1#: can you train a rabbit to do things?
#Person2#: you can't train them like you can train dogs, but you can train them to do some things. For example, you can train them to go the bathroom in a special rabbit toilet.
#Person1#: that's amazing! Has she bitten you yet?
#Person2#: not yet. She's pretty tame. I think she must be used to being around lots of different people.

Summary: #Person1# is interested in #Person2#'s new pet rabbit, and #Person2# tells #Person1# the rabbit can be affectionate, docile, trained, and it's not difficult to take care of it.


#Person1#: It's almost vacation time. Have you found a summer job yet?
#Person2#: I suppose I can work at the boys camp, but camp jobs don't pay much. So I won't consider it.
#Person1#: I think I can get a job at the Seaview Hotel. A friend of mine was a waiter there. He got a lot of tips. Tips are a great way to make extra money, you know.
#Person2#: What I want is a job outside. This summer, I think I might work for a road building company or something like that. I hear physical work pays pretty well.
#Person1#: It will be good experience.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the summer jobs they will do.


#Person1#: My friend Emily recently lost 18 pounds.
#Person2#: Oh, really?
#Person1#: The point is that she has been persuading me to lose weight too.
#Person2#: Well, it's a good thing for you.
#Person1#: Good? Yes, it's good for her but not for me. You see, she tells me that I'll feel better about myself if I slim down. She keeps giving me newspaper clippings about the latest miracle diet and insists that I join a health club, as she has.
#Person2#: So you don't think you are fat and need to lose weight?
#Person1#: I just can't bear it that Emily made me feel like a baby who always pigs out on junk food.
#Person2#: junk food is not good for your health. Too much of it will make you fat.
#Person1#: But junk food is so easy. It requires no silverware or plates, no rigid mealtimes, no pleases and thank yous.
#Person2#: Ok, but junk food has many disadvantages. As junk food contains high amount of oil and fat, you'll feel sleepy, but not be able to concentrate when you have a lot of it.
#Person1#: Yes, but life without chips, ice cream and coca cola is boring.
#Person2#: Let me see. You could exercise more to keep fit.
#Person1#: Well, that sounds better than giving it up.

Summary: #Person1# hates that Emily made #Person1# feel like a baby who pigs out on junk food. #Person2# suggests exercising more and #Person1# thinks it's better than giving up.


#Person1#: Excuse me, I would like to know something about this campus. Right now it seems very big and confusing! I have no idea where I am going or what I am doing.
#Person2#: Do you have a map of the campus?
#Person1#: Yes, I have, but it doesn ' t help me very much. I ' m not very good at reading maps.
#Person2#: Do you know where your classes are?
#Person1#: More or less. I go to three different buildings, and always get there late. I feel so hopeless. I don ' t know why I am late all the time. No one else seems to be.
#Person2#: That's because you don't know the short cuts. You'll learn them after a while. I can show you the ropes.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the campus is big and confusing and tells #Person2# #Person1# is always late for classes. #Person2#'ll tell #Person1# the short cuts.


#Person1#: Good morning, Madam. Are you being helped?
#Person2#: No, I'm not.
#Person1#: Where? I can certainly help you if you'd like some advice. This skirt and scarves over here are back in style.
#Person2#: Oh, I'm here to look for a winter coat.
#Person1#: How about this one? It's made of very high-quality wool.
#Person2#: It's nice but actually I need something warmer. This would work if I were staying here in Los Angeles. But it's too light for Chicago winter.
#Person1#: Ah, you need a very heavy coat. Then please follow me. This one here is a good value and is one of our warmest coats. It's also quite fashionable and very comfortable.
#Person2#: Would it be possible to get a discount on it?
#Person1#: Maybe we can give you a 5% discount.
#Person2#: OK. I'll take it.
#Person1#: Can interest you in some gloves? They are 10% percent off now.
#Person2#: No, thanks. I used to live in London, so I already have some very nice gloves.

Summary: #Person2#'s looking for a very heavy winter coat for Chicago winter. #Person1# recommends one and give #Person2# a 5% discount. #Person2#'ll take it.


#Person1#: Do you get along with your boss?
#Person2#: Actually I do. She is really understanding and reasonable most of the time. There was only one time I didn't really agree with her.
#Person1#: When was that? ?
#Person2#: Once she fired one of my co-workers for drinking on the job. I felt bad for him, because it is so hard to find a job thses days, and he has a family to support.
#Person1#: Well, he shouldn't have been drinking on duty. It's your boss' responsibility to make sure employees are safe, and also doing their jobs.
#Person2#: You are right. She was being a good boss when she fired him, but I just felt sorry for him, that's all.
#Person1#: Did this incident with your co-worker affect your relationship with your boss?
#Person2#: Not really. All of us at the office respect our boss a lot.
#Person1#: You're lucky you can get along so well with your boss. It makes a big difference in how much you enjoy your job.
#Person2#: No kidding. If you don't like your biss or your co-workers, they can make your life miserable.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# get along with #Person2#'s boss. #Person2# thinks #Person2#'s boss was still being a good boss even when there was a time #Person2# didn't really agree with her. They agree a good relationship with the boss is important.


#Person1#: What are you doing there with your mobile phone?
#Person2#: I'm moblogging!
#Person1#: Moblogging? what does that mean?
#Person2#: Oh, moblogging is a combination of the word 'mobile' and 'blogging'. It's another form of blogging. Users can publish blog entries to the web from a mobile phone or other mobile devices.
#Person1#: Sounds interesting! That must be very convenient.
#Person2#: Yes, you're right. I can blog wherever and whenever I'm on the move. It's especially good when I'm on a business trip and my laptop happens to be away from me.
#Person1#: How can you do that?
#Person2#: Well, if I simply want to write a few words, I'll send it by email or edit it all from the cell phone browser.
#Person1#: What if you want to publish some photos?
#Person2#: Then I'll shoot some pictures, re-size the images and upload them with text descriptions to my blog.
#Person1#: I see. Moblogging must have done a great favor for habitual bloggers like you.
#Person2#: You bet it!

Summary: #Person2# introduces moblogging to #Person1#. Moblogging combines 'mobile' and 'blogging' so that it's convenient for #Person2# to publish blogs anytime anywhere.


#Person1#: Could you tell me something about your family?
#Person2#: OK. There are five people in my family, Father, mother, elder brother, younger sister and I.
#Person1#: Are your brother and sister still in school?
#Person2#: My brother has found his job and my sister is still in college.
#Person1#: What does your father do?
#Person2#: My father is a middle school teacher.
#Person1#: What about your mother?
#Person2#: My mother is a housewife.
#Person1#: Are you married?
#Person2#: I am not married yet and I live alone now.
#Person1#: Do you need to support your family?
#Person2#: No, my father and brother are doing that.
#Person1#: Have you finished school?
#Person2#: Yes, I have already graduated.

Summary: #Person2# is introducing #Person2#'s family to #Person1#. There are five members, father, mother, elder brother, younger sister, and #Person2#.


#Person1#: Where shall we sit? Look! There are some free seats in the corner.
#Person2#: The seats by the window are better. It'll be cooler there. And we can see the scene outside.
#Person1#: Okay. What would you like to eat?
#Person2#: I'm really hungry now. I think I'll have chicken and chips with baked beans. Why don't you have chicken too?
#Person1#: I don't eat meat. It makes me ill. I think I'll have a cheese sandwich instead.
#Person2#: And what about drinks? I think I'll have some mint tea. Would you like some?
#Person1#: No, that's really expensive! It's three dollars sixty cents! I'll have a coffee. It's much cheaper.
#Person3#: Good evening.
#Person2#: Good evening. We'll have one chicken and chips with baked beans and one cheese sandwich please.
#Person3#: No problem! What would you like to drink?
#Person1#: A mint tea and a coffee please. Oh - and please bring me some cream for the coffee.
#Person3#: Okay. let me repeat your order. One chicken and chips with beans, one cheese sandwich, a mint tea and a coffee with cream.
#Person1#: Yes, thank you!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# choose the seats by the window and talk about what they will have for dinner. They order one chicken and chips with baked beans, one cheese sandwich, a mint tea, and a coffee with cream with #Person3#'s assistance.


#Person1#: Is there any cable for the Internet?
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: How much do I need to pay for it?
#Person2#: Nothing. The landlord pays.
#Person1#: Is there a mailbox in the apartment?
#Person2#: Yes. Each apartment has one.
#Person1#: Are there any parking lots for the tenants?
#Person2#: Yes. But you need to pay $ 60 for it each month.
#Person1#: Is there an alarm system in the apartment?
#Person2#: Yes. We set up the new alarm system a few months ago.
#Person1#: Who will take responsibility for the heating system if it has a problem?
#Person2#: Of course we do. It is the landlord's responsibility.
#Person1#: Are smoke detectors provided?
#Person2#: Yes.

Summary: #Person1#, the tenant, asks #Person2# about the facilities of the house and the responsibilities of maintaining the heating system.


#Person1#: You're looking very well.
#Person2#: Thank you. I try to keep in shape.
#Person1#: Do you often exercise?
#Person2#: Yes, as long as I can find the time. I like swimming best.
#Person1#: What style of swimming do you like best?
#Person2#: I like the back best. I am good at freestyle stroke, but I usually use breast stroke as it keeps me from getting tired.
#Person1#: I think butterfly stroke is the most difficult style to learn.
#Person2#: I agree. I'm not good at it, either. Can you swim? How about going for a swim this Saturday?
#Person1#: Oh, no. I am quite a stone in the water and cannot swim.

Summary: #Person2# often exercises and likes swimming best. #Person1# thinks butterfly stroke is the hardest, and #Person2# agrees.


#Person1#: Hello. Is this Mr. Smith's office and the Chemistry Department?
#Person2#: Yes, it is. Can I help you?
#Person1#: Yes, I am the mother of a student in his class. I want to talk with Mr. Smith about my son's performance. Is Mr. Smith in?
#Person2#: No, he's having class at the moment.
#Person1#: Do you know when I can reach him?
#Person2#: He has office hours between 1:00 and 3:00 this afternoon. You can reach him after office hours.
#Person1#: That's fine. Thank you very much.

Summary: #Person1# calls Mr. Smith's office to ask about her son's performance, but Mr. Smith is unavailable. #Person2# tells #Person1# about his available time.


#Person1#: I am trying to decide what school to apply to?
#Person2#: Are you thinking about a public school or a private one?
#Person1#: I am not sure. What's the difference between them?
#Person2#: Public schools are usually state funded, whereas private schools usually get their funding elsewhere.
#Person1#: Which is better?
#Person2#: One isn't necessarily better than the other. It depends a lot on the school administration and the teachers.
#Person1#: I hear you have to wear uniforms at private schools.
#Person2#: Yes, sometimes.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the differences between public schools and private schools.


#Person1#: Hello?
#Person2#: Hello, Stella. This is Peter.
#Person1#: Hi, Peter. Fancy hearing your voice! How are you?
#Person2#: Couldn't be better. I'm planning atrip to Memphis with my family this summer.
#Person1#: Great! I'd love to host you here. When are you coming?
#Person2#: We'll leave Boston on June 20th, stay in St. Louis, Missouri for a week, and then fly to your city. We'd probably stay for five days with you and come back, for it's a two-week vacation.
#Person1#: Is there anything special you'd like to do here?
#Person2#: We'd love to explore Beale Street, the official home of the blues, where we'd listen to live music. We'd also like to visit Graceland, the popular museum in memory of Elvis Presley. But above all, we want to spend some time with you and your family.
#Person1#: Of course! It's been ages since we metlast time. Let's have a dinner party in my garden.
#Person2#: Lovely! Oh, could you find for us a hotel near where you live? It doesn't have to be big, but I can't stand noise at bedtime.
#Person1#: Sure.
#Person2#: Thank you. See you soon.

Summary: Peter calls Stella and tells her he will visit her city, Memphis. Stella asks about his plan and will help to find a hotel for Peter and his family.


#Person1#: What shall we do when we find a shortage in the shipment?
#Person2#: You should do one of the two things - either to lodge a claim with the shipowner or with the insurance company.
#Person1#: Shall we leave it to the brokers?
#Person2#: Yes. They usually do it.
#Person1#: Do they charge for that?
#Person2#: Of course. In Europe, they charge a commission of 1 % of the amount of the claim for their service.
#Person1#: Is it the same in America?
#Person2#: They do the work without charge to the importer.
#Person1#: It's part of their service, isn't it?
#Person2#: Exactly.
#Person1#: Is it enough to claim with an on board bill of lading?
#Person2#: No, you must also obtain a statement from the shipping agent certifying that the goods were actually loaded on their vessel for shipment.
#Person1#: I see. By the way, how do we prove the ownership of our goods?
#Person2#: You must provide full original set of ocean bills of lading original insurance policy or certificate and the original commercia invoice.
#Person1#: I see. Thank you.
#Person2#: You are welcome.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# in detail about how to lodge a claim when a shortage is found and how to prove the ownership of the goods.


#Person1#: Hello, Lucy speaking.
#Person2#: Hi, Lucy. This is Jack. Are you still going to the health club?
#Person1#: Yes, why?
#Person2#: Well, I went to the hospital yesterday, and my doctor suggested I do more exercise.
#Person1#: I see. Why not join the club I'm going to.
#Person2#: Is it good?
#Person1#: Sure. Wonderful equipment, nice people, and it's not far from my home.
#Person2#: What do you do there?
#Person1#: Well, I often start by running, then swimming.
#Person2#: Does the club offer training courses?
#Person1#: Yes, basketball, tennis, dancing. You have a lot of choices.
#Person2#: Sounds great. How often do you go there?
#Person1#: Usually, twice a week. On Mondays and Thursdays.
#Person2#: Not bad. I think I can manage.
#Person1#: Hey, I'm going again tonight. Why not come along with me?
#Person2#: OK. Where shall we meet?
#Person1#: I'll wait for you in front of my house at 7:00.
#Person2#: See you then.

Summary: Jack's doctor suggested he do more exercise. Lucy invites him to join the health club and tells him some information about it. They'll go there together tonight.


#Person1#: Oh dear, I gained these 10 pounds in the last 3 months, none of my clothes fit any more.
#Person2#: I wouldn't complain, you look much better. In fact, you can gain another 5 pounds and still look good.

Summary: #Person1# gained weight but #Person2# thinks #Person1# looks good.


#Person1#: What's your favourite ball sport?
#Person2#: I like basketball. I really enjoy watching the NBA games on TV.
#Person1#: Who's your favourite player?
#Person2#: I don't really have one but I support Huston.
#Person1#: Do they have a good team?
#Person2#: I think they do, but I'm biased. They have a good manager and a great coach.
#Person1#: I can't keep up with the game. The players play so quickly that I can hardly see what they are doing.
#Person2#: I have the same problem. The players are really very skilful. I wish I could play that well.
#Person1#: You play for an amateur team, don't you?
#Person2#: Yes, I do. We're doing pretty well this season. We'Ve won most of our games, but we're not top of the league table.
#Person1#: How many more games are there this season?
#Person2#: We'Ve got four more games. I hope we can win all of them.

Summary: #Person2# likes basketball and enjoys watching NBA games. #Person2# supports Huston. #Person1# can't keep up with the game because players play so fast. #Person2# plays for an amateur team.


#Person1#: Excuse me, what's the screen near your steering wheel for?
#Person2#: It's a portable TV. It's a popular thing now.
#Person1#: Oh, that's new to me. So what's on everyday?
#Person2#: News about current affairs, documentaries, music, movies, noncommercial ads and so on.
#Person1#: Is there anything interesting?
#Person2#: Yes, there are something good and informative. I think that many people underestimate the value of TV in education.
#Person1#: I agree. Are there any commercials on the TV?
#Person2#: Of course. Because the TV stations need to make money from commercials between the programs.
#Person1#: That makes a lot of sense. Does the TV work well?
#Person2#: Not always. It depends on the transmission of the satellite signals.
#Person1#: I got it. Do you pay for the programs?
#Person2#: Yes, 50 Yuan per month.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the portable TV in #Person2#'s car has news, movies, and other good content. #Person2# says whether the TV works well depends on the signals.


#Person1#: Hello, Mr. Smith, Wang Peng speaks.
#Person2#: Hello! Mr. Wang. this is Smith.
#Person1#: I'm calling to thank you for the wonderful dinner I had yesterday.
#Person2#: It's a pleasure.
#Person1#: I'll come back to China tonight. I hope to see you again sometime.
#Person2#: I hope so.
#Person1#: I appreciate all help of you during my stay here.
#Person2#: Don't mention it.
#Person1#: Please let me know when you go to China and let me be of some assistance to you.
#Person2#: Yes, I will. Have a nice flight back.
#Person1#: Thanks, good-bye!
#Person2#: Good-bye!

Summary: Wang Peng calls Mr. Smith to thank him for the wonderful dinner yesterday and his help during Wang Peng's stay.


#Person1#: Hello, could you tell me my test results?
#Person2#: Your results are posted on the website. Just put in your password and you can see the exact numbers.
#Person1#: Are you saying that all my results were normal?
#Person2#: We always contact you by phone to come in if there is a need for follow-up.
#Person1#: How will I know what the results mean on the website?
#Person2#: The purpose of each test is given on the site.
#Person1#: Will the numbers mean anything to me?
#Person2#: The website will give you your results and then tell you what the normal range is.
#Person1#: Can I see all of my test results at once?
#Person2#: Yes, you can see every test for the past five years. You can compare them.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person1# can search his test results, know the purpose of the result and make comparisons in the past five years on the website.


#Person1#: What am I supposed to do with this plastic cup?
#Person2#: That cup is for a urine sample.
#Person1#: How, exactly, does this work?
#Person2#: This particular test calls for you to urinate into the cup after you have urinated a little into the toilet.
#Person1#: When I finish, what should I do then?
#Person2#: You need to leave the cup in the cubby in the restroom, and the lab tech will get it from the other side.
#Person1#: What is my doctor testing me for?
#Person2#: If there are bacteria in your urine, it could mean an infection somewhere.
#Person1#: Will I know the results right away?
#Person2#: Your doctor will be contacting you with the results.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# about how to use the plastic cup for a urine sample and what the doctor is testing #Person1# for.


#Person1#: How much is it all together?
#Person2#: Let me see. The bell-bottom pants are $ 90 and the coat is $ 120. It comes to $ 210.
#Person1#: Is it possible for you to reduce the price?
#Person2#: I am sorry. It's a one-price shop.

Summary: #Person1# buys clothes from #Person2# with no price reduction.


#Person1#: Is supper ready? I'm hungry.
#Person2#: Almost ready. Could you set the table?
#Person1#: Ok. What are we having?
#Person2#: We'll have fruit salad to start and then the roast beef.
#Person1#: I'll have my beef well-done, please. By the way, don't we have soup tonight?
#Person2#: I didn't prepare it, but if you want, I can cook some. What soup would you like to have?
#Person1#: Let me see. Well, I'd like onion soup. Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# has prepared fruit salad and roast beef for supper, but #Person1# would also like to have onion soup.


#Person1#: I really feel like eating a salad.
#Person2#: What kind are you going to make?
#Person1#: I'm really not sure.
#Person2#: I really like Caesar salads.
#Person1#: Caesar salads are pretty good.
#Person2#: What kind of salad do you want to make?
#Person1#: I want a salad with some chicken.
#Person2#: I love chicken salads.
#Person1#: I like my salads to have croutons, almonds, and shredded cheese.
#Person2#: That sounds really tasty.
#Person1#: You should make a salad like that.
#Person2#: I think that I will.

Summary: #Person1# wants a salad, then #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the salads they like.


#Person1#: Hey, check out this new game I bought today.
#Person2#: Wow! It's a trivia game all about the Academy Awards.
#Person1#: I know you love the Oscars. This game has some great questions about all types of movies.
#Person2#: Does it have questions about foreign language films? There's hardly any American films worth watching.
#Person1#: Yes. In fact, one of the categories is on foreign language films.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the new trivia game #Person1# bought today.


#Person1#: What do you think of the most important things to do when running a business?
#Person2#: Well, there are several things. Of course, you must do everything you can to keep costs down and revenues high.
#Person1#: So, do you think workers should be paid as little as possible?
#Person2#: No. if you do that, the workers won't like their jobs. They will be less efficient and you will get a high staff turnover. Those things will increase you costs.
#Person1#: How can a business maximise revenues?
#Person2#: You need to invest in some good advertising. You have to know where your potential customers are and target them. It's no good trying to sell computer games to older people. The market is too small.
#Person1#: What else do you suggest?
#Person2#: Find out what other companies charge for the same products or services. Price yourself near the low end. Don't be much cheaper than everyone else, because many customers distrust very cheap things. Th

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the most important thing for a business is to keep costs down and revenue high. #Person2# also tells #Person1# how to maximize revenues and how to price properly.


#Person1#: The tea smells good. What tea is it?
#Person2#: It's a special green tea named Longing Tea from Zhejiang province.
#Person1#: What's special about it except its pleasant smell?
#Person2#: You can see that it keeps the original color of the tea leaves very well.
#Person1#: They must have some special methods to do this during the process.
#Person2#: Probably. I love green tea. It's one of my daily necessities.
#Person1#: Then, do you have ' tea time ' every day? I mean, do you drink tea at a settled time?
#Person2#: Not really. But I really love to have after-meal tea.
#Person1#: What's the advantage about tea?
#Person2#: There are a lot of them. In hot or warm days, tea helps to dispel the heat and brings on an instant cool with a feeling of relaxation. Moreover, the tea leaves contain a number of chemicals which are good for people's health.
#Person1#: Does that mean the stronger the better?
#Person2#: No. Constant drinking of over-strong tea would do harm to people's health. So don't make your tea too strong.
#Person1#: Got it. What's the proper time for tea?
#Person2#: It's fine for most time of the day. But don't have tea before bedtime.
#Person1#: Why?
#Person2#: It will give rise to occasional insomnia. OK, let's enjoy the tea before it gets cold.

Summary: #Person2# presents Longing Tea to #Person1# and #Person1# is attracted to its smell and color. #Person2# loves drinking tea after the meal and she thinks tea is good for health and makes people relaxed. But it is important to control the drinking amount and forbid it before bedtime.


#Person1#: Debbie, do you have a favorite place that you would like to go for your birthday dinner?
#Person2#: I don't really know where I want to go. I am having trouble thinking of a particular restaurant.
#Person1#: We could look online at the local Internet sites.
#Person2#: Good, let's take a look.
#Person1#: What kind of food would you like for your birthday?
#Person2#: I like a lot of things, but Chinese or Thai would be better.
#Person1#: This one, Beijing duck looks pretty good.
#Person2#: Oh, yes, I've heard of that before. Everyone I've talked with says that it is great.
#Person1#: Would you like to go there, then?
#Person2#: I think that would be a really good choice. Let's call ahead to make sure that we can get a table for that night.

Summary: #Person1# and Debbie are looking for a restaurant online for Debbie's birthday dinner. Debbie chooses Beijing duck and will call ahead to get a table.


#Person1#: I've come to hear about your offer.
#Person2#: We have the offer ready for you. Let me check. 10 boxes with 50 brooches per box, at 20, 000 yuan ; 20 boxes with 50 waistbands per box, at 30, 000 yuan ; 15 boxes with other ornaments per box, at 7, 500 yuan, for shipment in June. The offer is valid for five days.
#Person1#: I can tell you right now that your prices are a little higher than we expected.
#Person2#: You know that the prices of the ornaments have been rising in recent years. The prices we offer this time compare favorably with quotations you can get else where.
#Person1#: I am afraid I can't agree with you there. I must point out your prices are higher than the quotations we've received from other companies.
#Person2#: But you must take the design and quality into consideration. You know we are superior to others in design and quality. We have various styles, which the other companies cannot catch up with.
#Person1#: I agree that yours are of the top.
#Person2#: Well, since your order is large enough, can you give me a rough idea?
#Person1#: To have this business concluded, I should say a reduction of least 10 % would help.
#Person2#: Impossible. How about 5 % off?
#Person1#: Right. A reduction of 5 % is acceptable.

Summary: #Person2# gives #Person1# an offer of ornaments. #Person1# thinks the price is higher than other companies. #Person2# asks #Person1# to consider design and quality. They agree on a 5% reduction.


#Person1#: Tom, does your throat hurt?
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: OK. Do you want to get better?
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: OK. We want you to get better, too. You'll have your tonsils out tomorrow, and you won't get so many colds any more.
#Person2#: But if I have my tonsils out tomorrow, I'll miss my birthday party on Saturday.
#Person1#: I know. It's a problem, isn't it? Let me try to work something out.
#Person2#: What?
#Person1#: I have to think about it.
#Person2#: You're joking with me.
#Person1#: Oh, I'm not, Tom. Give a chance to think about it, and I'll get a new idea.
#Person2#: A surprise?
#Person1#: Maybe. But you just put on your clothes, and I'll think of a surprise.
#Person2#: Will it hurt?
#Person1#: No. There are other boys and girls, and they are having tonsils out.
#Person2#: I don't want to.
#Person1#: Change your clothes, Tom. Everything will just be fine.

Summary: Tom's throat hurts. #Person1# suggests Tom have his tonsils out. #Person1# insists everything will be fine and won't hurt though Tom thinks he will miss his birthday party.


#Person1#: Mum, I am so excited that I don't want to go to bed.
#Person2#: John, I know you will go out on a picnic with your classmates. But you should try to fall asleep; otherwise you will not get up on time tomorrow morning.

Summary: John is too excited to go to bed because of the picnic tomorrow.


#Person1#: Hi Harry, it's great to see you again. I heard you have been traveling a lot recently.
#Person2#: Yeah, over the past 80 days. I've been to many countries in Africa.
#Person1#: I really envy you. Did you ride a lion?
#Person2#: What?
#Person1#: I'm just kidding.
#Person2#: Well I didn't ride a lion, but one time a mother elephant ran after me. And it was fun.
#Person1#: Are you serious?
#Person2#: No, I'm just kidding.
#Person1#: You really frightened me.
#Person2#: Well. I really miss the comforts of home. Now I just want to take a break. A long break.

Summary: #Person1# inquires Harry about his travel to Africa. Harry jokes about an elephant running after him and expresses his eagerness for a break.


#Person1#: Excuse me, are you going to buy that textbook?
#Person2#: Well, yeah, I need it for a class. But it's awfully expensive.
#Person1#: Oh, we must be in the same class! Civil engineering?
#Person2#: Yes, that's the one!
#Person1#: Were you there last Friday for the first class?
#Person2#: Yes. I only moved here last Monday, and I registered for the class last Tuesday. By the way, I thought Professor Qian really seemed to know his subject.
#Person1#: Yes, his courses are always fantastic, except that he is very strict with his students. Hey, I've got an idea! Why don't we share the cost and use the textbook together?
#Person2#: Sounds great. Then let's sit together next class.
#Person1#: Sure. Let's pay for it.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# find they are in the same class. The textbook is expensive, so they decide to share the cost and use the textbook together.


#Person1#: R :: Good morning. Room Reservations. May I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, I'd like to reserve a room.
#Person1#: R :: Thank you, sir. For which date and how many guests will there be in your party?
#Person2#: From April 16th to 20th. Just my wife and myself.
#Person1#: R :: From April 16th to 20th. And which kind of room would you prefer, sir?
#Person2#: A Twin, please.
#Person1#: Could you hold the line please? I'll check our room availability. ( After a while ) Thank you for waiting, sir. We have a twin room at US $ 180 per night, will that be all right?
#Person2#: Ok, I'll take it.
#Person1#: Thank you, sir. May I have your name and phone number, please?
#Person2#: Sure. May name is Aaron Johnson, and my phone number is 3242-5827.
#Person1#: R :: Mr. Aaron Johnson, phone number is 3242-5827. Excuse me, how do you spell your first name?
#Person2#: It's double A, R, O, N.
#Person1#: Double A, R, O, N. Thank you, Mr. Johnson. May I know your arrival time on April 16th?
#Person2#: Around 9 p. m.
#Person1#: Mr. Johnson, for the unguaranteed reservation, we can only hold the room by 6 p. m. , because it is the peak season now. If you make a guaranteed reservation, we can hold the room overnight. Would you like to make a guaranteed reservation by credit card?
#Person2#: Fine. Do you accept American Express?
#Person1#: Yes. May I know the number?
#Person2#: It's 134986
#Person1#: Thank you, Mr. Johnson. You'Ve made a guaranteed reservation at the Guangzhou xx Hotel, from April 16th to 20th for 5 nights. If you can't arrive as schedule, please inform us before 6 p. m. on April. hank you for calling and we look forward to serving you

Summary: Aaron Johnson calls Room Reservations to reserve a twin room at the Guangzhou xx Hotel from April 16th to 20th for 5 nights for his wife and himself. At #Person1#'s suggestion, Mr. Johnson makes a guaranteed reservation by credit card so they can hold the room overnight for him.


#Person1#: What's all that screaming about?
#Person2#: I just poured some ice water on Amy, while she was in the hot shower, you should have seen her face.
#Person1#: You shouldn't tease your sister so much.
#Person2#: Aaah it was just a joke mom.
#Person1#: You take it too far sometimes Matt, if my brother had been like you when I was growing up, I would have gone crazy. Remember the time you replaced her toothpaste with hot pepper? And when you put salt in her cake, that was just before her tenth birthday.
#Person2#: Sorry about that mom, that was a little too much. But Amy likes my jokes, she always laughs about it afterwards.
#Person1#: She does have a good sense of humor. You are lucky she loves you so much. My brother and I weren't as close. He was 5 years older and if he teased me, I always felt hurt. It's good that you and Amy are only one year apart in age.
#Person2#: She's my best friend, I like making her scared but I'll never hurt her.

Summary: Matt's mom is not satisfied with Matt's jokes about Amy and tells Matt not to take it too far, or it will hurt Amy.


#Person1#: How many hours do you work a week?
#Person2#: I do a forty-hour week. I'm on flexi-time. I usually start work at 8 a. m. and finish at 4
#Person1#: And how many weeks holiday do you get a year?
#Person2#: Four - plus public holidays. I usually take two weeks off in the summer and the rest at New Year.
#Person1#: Do you do overtime?
#Person2#: Yes, if we're busy. I'm paid double-time if I work at weekends.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# does a forty-hour week, has four-week long holidays a year, and does overtime if needed.


#Person1#: You asked Beth to be here around 7:00, didn't you?
#Person2#: Yes, what time is it now?
#Person1#: It's almost 8.I wonder what happened?
#Person2#: Um, she might have forgotten the time. Why don't I call and see if she's on her way. 'A few minutes later.', I got her voicemail so she must not have turned on her cellphone.
#Person1#: I hope she didn't have a problem on the road. Her car could have broken down or something.
#Person2#: Of course she may have simply forgotten and done something else today.
#Person1#: No, she couldn't have forgotten. I just talked to her about it yesterday. I guess we should start to order without her.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are waiting for Beth. They discuss the possible reasons for her being late.


#Person1#: Hi, Tony.
#Person2#: Hello, Kate, how are you?
#Person1#: Oh, fine, thanks. And you and Jane?
#Person2#: Oh, we're fine? How long are you staying?
#Person1#: Just a couple of days and then I'll go back to work in Tokyo.
#Person2#: It's too bad you are not staying in London for a bit longer. Anyway, how about dinner tonight?
#Person1#: I'd love to have dinner with you, but I'm meeting some customers from Oxford this evening. What about tomorrow?
#Person2#: That'd be lovely. Jane will be pleased.
#Person1#: What time should I come?
#Person2#: How about 8:00?
#Person1#: Great. I'll see you tomorrow then.

Summary: Kate came to London for work and Tony invites her to dinner with him and Jane. They'll have dinner tomorrow at 8.


#Person1#: Tony, can I ask you a personal question?
#Person2#: About what?
#Person1#: Well, I was wondering about how you are received here in China.
#Person2#: What do you mean?
#Person1#: Well, since you are Chinese-Canadian and only speak English and French well; how do native Chinese treat you?
#Person2#: Oh, well. Sometimes it can get pretty difficult. When people find out that I am a Canadian citizen who can't speak Chinese well,they usually call me a banana. You know, yellow on the outside and white on the inside.
#Person1#: How does that make you feel?
#Person2#: Well, I first feel mad. Then I feel sad, because I am seen as someone who has forgotten his roots. All this is because my parents left to find a better life and I decided to return in order to find something I lost. Sometimes I am not sure if I like what I found.

Summary: #Person1# asks Tony how he is received in China. Tony feels mad at first and then feels sad as he is Chinese-Canadian and only speaks English and French well.


#Person1#: Hi, Ben! Where are you going now?
#Person2#: I am going to the cinema.
#Person1#: What is on today?
#Person2#: Cats and Dogs.
#Person1#: I saw it yesterday. It tells a story about a fight between cats and dogs.
#Person2#: Sounds interesting.
#Person1#: Yes. In fact, it is wonderful. All the actors in the film are real dogs and cats, not cartoons. By the way, what time is it?
#Person2#: It is 3:15.
#Person1#: I have got to leave now because I have got to visit my aunt in the hospital.
#Person2#: See you later.
#Person1#: See you.

Summary: Ben's going to the cinema to watch Cats and Dogs. #Person1# tells him the movie's wonderful.


#Person1#: I would like to speak to you, if you don ' t mind.
#Person2#: What would you like to speak to me about?
#Person1#: I would like to talk to you about this year ' s election.
#Person2#: Is that right?
#Person1#: I am a volunteer for this year ' s campaign.
#Person2#: That ' s wonderful. I am impressed at someone so young taking a stand.
#Person1#: I know history is about to be made, and I would like to be a part of it.
#Person2#: That ' s fantastic.
#Person1#: Are you planning on voting?
#Person2#: I ' m going to vote.
#Person1#: Go to your polling place early on Election Day.
#Person2#: I will. Good luck with your volunteering.

Summary: #Person1# is a volunteer for this year's campaign and talks to #Person2# about this year's election.


#Person1#: We have some quality-control problems. Mr. Zhang. We need to go to the source to work them out.
#Person2#: What problems are you having exactly?
#Person1#: The complaint rate for our new product line is very high, almost eight percent.
#Person2#: That is high.
#Person1#: Yes. We keep finding problems when testing the sound boards.
#Person2#: But your promotional materials claim the broads are the least expensive of their types on the market.
#Person1#: The least expensive, but still fully functional. And we think that your factory needs to take measures to improve quality-control.
#Person2#: That will involve additional expenses for us, which we will have to pass on to you as a rate hike.
#Person1#: I am afraid that is not acceptable. Your contract says that you will deliver a product with a reject rate of less than six percent.
#Person2#: Well. I will tell you what, Mr. Li. I will review the contract and talk with management. Then we will get together and hash this out.

Summary: Mr. Li reports the high complaint rate of the new product line to Mr. Zhang and urges him to improve quality-control. Mr. Zhang demands a rate hike but is turned down by Mr. Li according to the signed contract.


#Person1#: How may I help you?
#Person2#: There's a problem with my check.
#Person1#: What problem?
#Person2#: My check for $ 100 bounced.
#Person1#: Are you sure you have $ 100 in your checking account?
#Person2#: I thought I did.
#Person1#: I'll check for you.
#Person2#: Thank you very much.
#Person1#: It looks like you only have $ 57 left in your account.
#Person2#: That can't be right!
#Person1#: That's what my computer is showing.
#Person2#: All right. Thank you very much.

Summary: #Person2#'s check for $ 100 bounced. #Person1# notices there's only $ 57 left in #Person2#'s account.


#Person1#: I've noticed that you spend a lot of time tending your garden. Would you like to join our gardening club? We meet every other Wednesday.
#Person2#: Oh, thanks for the invitation, but this is how I relax. I'd rather not make it something formal and structured.

Summary: #Person2# refuses #Person1#'s invitation to a gardening club.


#Person1#: I have a question about my cable.
#Person2#: What do you need?
#Person1#: I haven't been able to watch my cable for the past week.
#Person2#: Right now the cable isn't working.
#Person1#: Could you tell me when it will be back on?
#Person2#: The cable should be running again in a couple of days.
#Person1#: In the meantime, do I still have to pay for the cable?
#Person2#: We'll just give you a credit for the inconvenience.
#Person1#: Does that mean I won't have to pay for it?
#Person2#: It'll be free until it comes back on.
#Person1#: Thanks, I appreciate your help.
#Person2#: Thank you for all your patience.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the cable isn't working and it'll be free until it comes back on.


#Person1#: Will you book a ticket to New York for me?
#Person2#: Yes, sir. When do you want to leave here?
#Person1#: This Saturday.
#Person2#: Will, that'll be the sixth of September.
#Person1#: That's right. Will you check what fights are available on the sixth of September?
#Person2#: I'll check it over. Oh, there're three flights available that day. one at 2 p. m. , one at 5 p. m. and the other at 9p. m.
#Person1#: I'll have the 5 o'clock one. What time do I check in?
#Person2#: 4 o'clock.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# to book a ticket. #Person1# chooses to leave for New York at 5 o'clock on September 9th.


#Person1#: What kinds of Tv programs do you enjoy watching?
#Person2#: I like current affairs programs and documentaries, especially wildlife ones. How about you?
#Person1#: I like those kinds of programs too. They're very informative. I think that many people underrate the education value of Tv.
#Person2#: I agree. People often criticize Tv for showing too much sex and violence.
#Person1#: Yeah. And that's so funny because most people prefer watching sex and violence to watching something more educational!
#Person2#: Right. You can't blame the tv stations for showing popular kinds of programs. They need to make money from advertisements shown during and between programs.
#Person1#: In my country, there's a time limit on the advertisements that can be shown. I think it's about six minutes per hour.
#Person2#: That's great idea. But don't the Tv station lose a lot of money because of that?
#Person1#: No. they don't. they simply charge higher prices at peak times. Is there no limit on the amount of advertisements that can be shown on Tv in your country?
#Person2#: Not as far as I know. We have so many advertisements. the interruptions are unbearable sometimes! That's one reason that many people prefer satellite or cable Tv, where you pay a fixed amount each month.
#Person1#: Some people have satellite and cable Tv in my country, but people don't seem to keen to pay for their Tv programs. Besides, the terrestrial channels offer a good range of programs.
#Person2#: Well, there's a wildlife documentary on Tv in a few minutes. Shall we?

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# both think Tv programs are informative, and advertisements shown during and between programs shouldn't be blamed. In #Person1#'s country, there's a time limit on the advertisements, but there are still many advertisements in #Person2#'s country.


#Person1#: How much tea are you going to order?
#Person2#: We want to order 3, 000 cases and hope to deliver the goods in two equal lots.
#Person1#: When do you want to deliver the goods?
#Person2#: We'd like you to execute the first delivery by June 30 and the second delivery by August 15.
#Person1#: I'm sorry, but June 30 is quite soon. I can't guarantee 1 500 cases, I'd prefer the first shipment to be 1, 000 cases and the next 2, 000 cases.
#Person2#: I can agree to that.
#Person1#: Let me affirm this again - the first shipment of 1, 000 cases, to be delivered in 27 days, by June 30, and the second shipment of 2, 000 cases by August 15. Right?
#Person2#: Right.
#Person1#: Well, if there's nothing else, I think we've settled everything.
#Person2#: Let's hope it's the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# reach an agreement that the first shipment will be delivered in 27 days by June 30, and the second shipment by August 15.


#Person1#: When did you last go to the seaside?
#Person2#: Last July. We spent all our days on the beach.
#Person1#: Did you have a good time there?
#Person2#: Yes. We swam and dived off the rocks into the sea. We also played game on the sand.
#Person1#: The summer vacation is coming. Will you go there this year?
#Person2#: I am afraid I won't. My father will go to Guangzhou on business next week. He won't back until September.
#Person1#: What a pity! How long can you hold your breath under the water?
#Person2#: I don't know. Perhaps more than one minute.
#Person1#: That's wonderful. Let us go swimming tomorrow in the river. Is that right?

Summary: #Person2# had a good time at the beach last summer but cannot go there this year because of her father's business trip. #Person1# invites #Person2# to go swimming tomorrow.


#Person1#: I am here to tell you that the clothes are very much to taste of our market and the customers are quite satisfied with the excellent quality.
#Person2#: We are very glad to hear that. We are sure that there will be a bigger market for our products in this country.
#Person1#: Well, we have an extensive sales organization and a thorough knowledge of Asian market. Your products would sell very well here. We are prepared to do more business with you. We are also interested in handing a sole agent for you.
#Person2#: We really appreciate your efforts. Before we go to the core of matter, can you give us some idea of them on which you would be willing to operate as our agent?
#Person1#: No problem.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person2#'s products are popular among Asian customers, so #Person1# would like to hand a sole agent for #Person2#.


#Person1#: Good evening, sir, madam. A table for two?
#Person2#: No, thank you. But we have a small problem. Can you help us?
#Person1#: Sure. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: We are looking for a hotel. Are there any hotels near here?
#Person1#: Yes, there are some hotels in the street. The nearest one is next to the bank. It's quite modern.
#Person2#: Do you think there're any inexpensive ones nearby? We're leaving tomorrow morning.
#Person1#: Yes. Drive west for about two minutes and you will find a grey building on the right side. It's a traditional family style hotel, very comfortable, and the price is quite reasonable.
#Person2#: It sounds nice. Thank you very much for your help.
#Person1#: That's all right.

Summary: #Person2# asks #Person1# if there're any inexpensive hotels nearby. #Person1# tells #Person2# that there's a traditional family-style hotel two-minute drive away.


#Person1#: Hi, what can I do for you?
#Person2#: I'd like to send this package to France. Can it be delivered in the next 5 days?
#Person1#: Yes, we offer an overnight service. It'll cost $70.
#Person2#: Ah, that's a bit expensive. Do you have a 3 days service?
#Person1#: No, but we can get your package to France in one week for $40.
#Person2#: Well, that sounds good. I'll take that. Is the service guaranteed?
#Person1#: Yes, we also offer a service where we can track your package, but that will cost $10 extra.
#Person2#: Oh, I won't need the tracking service.

Summary: #Person1#'ll send #Person2#'s package to France in one week for $40 without tracing service.


#Person1#: Sometimes I think television is too biased. None of them are completely objective.
#Person2#: That's unavoidable, but think, How would you keep up to date without television?
#Person1#: Newspapers or the radio I guess. I just wish TV was more objective.
#Person2#: Look, you can still learn a lot from watching television, you just need to be smart when you're watching. Filter the information and decide if you believe what you are hearing or not.
#Person1#: The internet's a lot worse.
#Person2#: Really? Why?
#Person1#: There's no one moderating it. Anyone around the world can put information onto the net for anyone else to see. The information on the internet is mostly unsubstantiated and you can never know who has written it, or why. A lot of people get conned online.
#Person2#: Again, you need to think carefully. If you don't trust others online, have nothing to do with them.

Summary: #Person1# thinks television is too biased and the internet is worse because TV isn't objective and no one moderates it. #Person2# suggests thinking carefully to filter the information.


#Person1#: What can I do?
#Person2#: The system crashed when I was surfing on the internet.
#Person1#: Did you go to any illegal website?
#Person2#: No, But does that matter?
#Person1#: Yes, your computer can be easily infected by virus if you do that.
#Person2#: I see. I'd better never try.
#Person1#: That's wise.
#Person2#: Do you know what's wrong with my PC?
#Person1#: One minute. Oh, yes, it was infected by a virus, and you had no antivirus software.
#Person2#: Is anti-virus software necessary for a PC?
#Person1#: Of course. You'd better learn something about it.
#Person2#: I'm afraid yes. But what about the data I stored in the computer?
#Person1#: Don't worry, it should have been protected automatically. And I take an anti-virus software with me. Do you want me to install it now?
#Person2#: Yes, please. I'll really appreciate that.

Summary: #Person2#'s computer system crashed and #Person1# finds it was infected by the virus. #Person1#'ll install anti-virus software for #Person2#.


#Person1#: Wow, the ferris wheel over there is so big. I'd like to take a ride on it.
#Person2#: It is called Energy Collector.
#Person1#: Look at your right-hand. Is it the zone of the Lost Maya Kingdom?
#Person2#: Maybe. Oh. I see the Jungle Flying Train. I once rode it. It was very exciting.
#Person1#: I want to have a try later.
#Person2#: Me, too. Daniel, look at your left side. Can you see the Air Force Ants?
#Person1#: Wow, that's my favorite. It's like a superman shooting right up into the sky.
#Person2#: Good, you can make your dream come true here.
#Person1#: Of course. After this, I want to show you to the Haunted House.
#Person2#: So you can prove you are a man.
#Person1#: Bingo!
#Person2#: It's just you!

Summary: Daniel and #Person2# are excited to see Energy Collector, the Jungle Flying Train, and the Air Force Ants. They will try them later.


#Person1#: May I come in?
#Person2#: Yes, please. I ' m Mr. Peter, the Director of Personnel. What can I do for you?
#Person1#: Nice to meet you, Mr. Peter. I ' m Wang Sian. I ' Ve come for an interview as requested.
#Person2#: Oh, yes. How do you do, Miss Wang? Sit down, please.
#Person1#: Thank you.
#Person2#: What was your major in school?
#Person1#: I majored in Public Relations.
#Person2#: Have you done any work in this field?
#Person1#: Yes, after my graduation, I worked in a trade company in Macao for one year.
#Person2#: What section did you work in?
#Person1#: The export Business Section.
#Person2#: So you must be very familiar with export procedures.
#Person1#: Yes, very much.
#Person2#: That's good.

Summary: Wang Sian comes for an interview, and Mr. Peter asks her some questions about her major and work experience.


#Person1#: May I help you?
#Person2#: I'd like to cash this check, please.
#Person1#: Do you have an account with us?
#Person2#: Yeah. Here's my identification card.
#Person1#: Do you want large or small bills?
#Person2#: Actually, I want to buy some traveler's checks.
#Person1#: What denomination?
#Person2#: Twenties would be fine.
#Person1#: Do you want the whole amount in traveler's check?
#Person2#: Yes, please.

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# cash the check to buy traveler's checks.


#Person1#: John, I'd like you to meet Charles Brown, our new manager at the airport.
#Person2#: Yes, certainly. How can I recognize him?
#Person1#: He is short, well-built, and he's got light blond hair.
#Person2#: Is there anything else?
#Person1#: He has a mustache, if I remember correctly, and a light complexion.
#Person2#: How old is he?
#Person1#: He is in his late thirties.
#Person2#: Well. I shouldn't have any trouble recognizing him. What time does his flight arrive?
#Person1#: At two thirty.

Summary: #Person2# asks John to meet Charles Brown at the airport and tells him how to recognize Brown.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: I want to buy a ticket to Sydney tomorrow.
#Person1#: Right now fight BW159 is the only one available, it is a non-direct one.
#Person2#: What's the exact information?
#Person1#: It departs at 4:40 pm tomorrow and arrives in Sydney at 10:20 am. the next morning by way of Melboume.
#Person2#: How long is the layover in Melboume?
#Person1#: About 1 hour. Would you buy it?
#Person2#: Yes. I want a first class single ticket.

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# buy a first-class single ticket of flight BW159 to Sydney.


#Person1#: When would you like me to send those plans over to your office, Mr. Montgomery?
#Person2#: It would be good if you could get them to me by Thursday afternoon, Ms. Barkley.
#Person1#: That shouldn't be a problem. What is the exact address, again?
#Person2#: 7880 Crofton Avenue, Building 40A, Room 304.

Summary: Mr. Montgomery wants Ms. Barkley to send plans over to his office by Thursday afternoon.


#Person1#: Were you born in the U. S. , Melissa?
#Person2#: No, I wasn't. I came here in 1992.
#Person1#: How old were you?
#Person2#: I was seventeen.
#Person1#: So, did you go to college right away?
#Person2#: No, because my English wasn't very good. I studied English for two years first.
#Person1#: Wow, your English is really fluent now.
#Person2#: Thanks. Your English is pretty good, too.
#Person1#: Yeah, but I was born here! !

Summary: #Person1# compliments Melissa's English because Melissa isn't a native speaker.


#Person1#: How do you like the food?
#Person2#: It tastes really great. Did you cook it?
#Person1#: Yes. I made it this afternoon. Would you like some more?
#Person2#: OK, just a little though. I'm really full.
#Person1#: Oh. Would you like some soup instead?
#Person2#: What kind is it?
#Person1#: Tomato and rice. Have you had that before?
#Person2#: No. This is my first time. How does it taste?
#Person1#: It's good, try it. What do you think?
#Person2#: Wow. It is good. Did you make that also?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: You're a really good cook.
#Person1#: Thanks, next time I'll make chicken soup for us.
#Person2#: That sounds good. Did you study cooking in school?
#Person1#: No, I learned by myself. I have a good cook book that I read when I have time.

Summary: #Person2# admires the food cooked by #Person1#. Then #Person2# serves #Person1# some soup. #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# was self-taught in cooking.


#Person1#: Did you go camping last Saturday?
#Person2#: We went to the coast. It's really a nice place for camping, really good time around the fire singing and dancing.
#Person1#: How many members were in your party in all?
#Person2#: There were six of us.
#Person1#: Did you get caught in the bad storm?
#Person2#: Yes, we got wet through. But we still enjoyed ourselves.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that they went camping and got caught in the storm, but still enjoyed themselves.


#Person1#: Tomorrow will be my first day at work, what do you think I should be wearing?
#Person2#: Well, if you want to look professional, serious and more conservative, a blue dress, white shirt and not-too-high shoes would be the best choice. But sometimes, very formal clothes will keep you at a distance from your colleagues. It depends on the company's dress code.
#Person1#: Indeed, I found most of the employees dress casually when I went to the interview. Only the manager was in suit and tie and he just came back from a ceremony. It seems that their dress code is not that formal. Probably, I should put on car key and simple shirt.
#Person2#: Whatever you choose, make sure they are neat and clean.

Summary: #Person2# gives #Person1# suggestions about what to wear on #Person1#'s first day at work.


#Person1#: Do you have any direct flights to Toronto?
#Person2#: Sorry, we don't. But I think you can fly on Northwest Airlines to Berlin and then have a connecting flight on Canada Airline to Toronto. And it is the most economical flight, just 1, 900 dollars.
#Person1#: When does the flight depart?
#Person2#: At 8 am. By the way, it also makes a refueling stop.
#Person1#: How long is the layover?
#Person2#: Less than one hour.
#Person1#: And how long do I have to stay in Berlin for the connecting flight?
#Person2#: Not so long, just one hour.
#Person1#: So the time for the total journey is about. . . ?
#Person2#: About 13 hours.
#Person1#: Let me count. Ok, it works out for my schedule. Thanks a lot!
#Person2#: You are welcome!

Summary: #Person1# wants to fly to Toronto. #Person2# suggests #Person1# fly on Northwest Airlines to Berlin and then have a connecting flight on Canada Airline to Toronto.


#Person1#: Can you tell me the differences between a letter and a memorandum, Miss Thong?
#Person2#: Certainly. A letter must be sent out of the company and must be mailed or posted. A memorandum is a communication within an organization.
#Person1#: Should we use the layout we use for a letter when we write a memorandum?
#Person2#: No, not necessary. Usually we have a set form which is printed. We just fill in the printed forms and send it to the person or the offices concerned in the company.
#Person1#: Of course, let me find one for you.

Summary: Miss Thong tells #Person1# the differences between a letter and a memorandum and says it's not necessary to use the layout when writing a memorandum.


#Person1#: Hi, Bill. It's Marsha Black at MPPD Ltd. How are you?
#Person2#: Hello, Marsha, I haven't heard from you in a long time. I'm great, and you?
#Person1#: Not too bad at all. Do you have a minute?
#Person2#: Sure, what can I do for you?
#Person1#: We're getting ready to place our Christmas orders and we need to know about how much it's going to run this year. You know, so we can have the funds put aside.
#Person2#: I'm really busy right now. I got a lot on my plate. So this isn't an actual bid you want but just a ballpark figure?
#Person1#: Right, a ballpark figure is fine, and slant it a little high if you have to.
#Person2#: Well, I can give you those figures now over the phone, is that okay? Or do you need them in writing?
#Person1#: It's going to be shown to the Board so I need it in writing. Make all the prices subject to confirmation so you can't be held to them. How soon can I have it?
#Person2#: Is this another rush, dear? Did you forget and wait until the last minute again?
#Person1#: Yeah, I'm afraid so. I really need your help here.
#Person2#: Well, just because it's you. Tomorrow, say around noon.

Summary: Marsha Black is getting ready to place the Christmas orders and needs to know about how much it's going to run this year. Bill will give her a ballpark figure in writing tomorrow around noon.


#Person1#: I was wondering how you are going to calculate our final grades.
#Person2#: Grades are based on many things
#Person1#: What counts the most?
#Person2#: Actually I look at all of it and let's not forget class participation.
#Person1#: Do you grade on a curve or use percentages?
#Person2#: Homework, attendance, and quizzes are sixty percent ; the mid-term and final are worth twenty percent each.
#Person1#: What if we miss something?
#Person2#: I will allow one unexcused absence ; after that you need to contact me ahead of time.
#Person1#: Will you tell us if we are failing during the year?
#Person2#: You will be able to track your progress during the year.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that their final grades are based on many things such as homework, attendance, quizzes, mid-term, and final. And #Person2# will allow one unexcused absence.


#Person1#: You have been here for how long? Four months now?
#Person2#: Yeah, about.
#Person1#: Do you know Chinese better now?
#Person2#: Oh, definitely. I remember, when I first arrived in Guangzhou, my girlfriend was haggling with a sales clerk over the price of a mobile phone.
#Person1#: Oh, yeah. Many Chinese like to bargain. It happens almost everywhere.
#Person2#: I mean, I understand that. But the speed of the conversation got faster and faster, until it seemed to me that they would fight. My perception of the tone was that it was a violent shouting match. The truth was that it was a perfectly normal conversation.
#Person1#: A shouting match? You're so funny. You must be exaggerating. I don't believe it.
#Person2#: I am not exaggerating at all. I'm telling you the truth. That was how I felt at that time.
#Person1#: Yes, perhaps. Chinese usually don't notice that sort of thing. Maybe it's quite natural to us.
#Person2#: Yes, absolutely true.

Summary: #Person2# has been in China for 4 months and knows Chinese better now. Then #Person2# and #Person1# talk about the feeling of bargaining between Chinese.


#Person1#: Good coming, sir. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: Good coming. I would like to open a new account. I want to deposit 500 dollars.
#Person1#: Very good, sir. What kind would you like?
#Person2#: Could you tell me how many kinds there are in your bank?
#Person1#: Besides the checking account, there's a monthly savings account and a daily interest account.
#Person2#: Oh, I think I'd like to take the monthly savings account then.
#Person1#: Would you fill out this form?
#Person2#: OK. Here you are.
#Person1#: All right. And here's your deposit book.
#Person2#: Thank you. Goodbye.
#Person1#: Goodbye.

Summary: #Person1# introduces to #Person2# the account types in the bank and helps #Person2# open the monthly savings account.


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

Summary: Sarah shows her new coat to #Person1# and says she bought it at the mall and it cost 20 dollars.


#Person1#: What are you doing for Christmas next week?
#Person2#: My entire family is going to my brother's house. His wife always likes to go all out. She even dresses up like Santa Claus and delivers presents.
#Person1#: Wow, how old are your kids now?
#Person2#: Kathy is 2, Michael is 3 and Melissa is 5. They absolutely love going to their aunt and uncle's house for Christmas every year. What are you doing next week?
#Person1#: Well, we usually go to my parents' house for Christmas dinner. But this year we'll go to my sister's for Christmas Eve and then have Christmas dinner there the next day. My dad's health hasn't been the best, so it's easier for him not to have to worry about preparing anything.
#Person2#: Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. Health issues can be so upsetting around the holidays. It will be nice for him to be surrounded by family, though.
#Person1#: For sure. He loves Christmas and is really looking forward to seeing my brother, my sister and me. He wants a grandchild soon, but I told him I can't promise anything yet.
#Person2#: Well, kids can be stressful sometimes. But my children are the best thing that's ever happened to me.

Summary: #Person2# will spend Christmas at #Person2#'s brother' s house and #Person1# will go to #Person1#'s sister's because of #Person1#'s father's health issues. #Person1#'s Dad wants grandchildren and #Person2# says #Person2#'s children are the best gift ever.


#Person1#: Well, what's on?
#Person1#: Well, hmm. There is a reality show on at 7:00 on channel 5.
#Person2#: Nah, you know I don't like reality shows. I mean, they usually show people doing crazy things like, you know, eating live fish or swimming in a pool full of snakes. I don't get into that.
#Person1#: Okay. Well, how about watching a documentary on the life of panda bears in the wild?
#Person2#: Personally, I'd rather watch something with a little bit more action and suspense.
#Person1#: Well, then. Ah, here's something. Do you want to watch a rerun of Star Wars?
#Person2#: Nah, I've seen it a zillion times. I'd like to see something different.
#Person1#: Okay, let's see here. Oh, how about this? On channel 2 at 9:00, there's a home improvement show about fixing anything around the house. We do have a few things that you could repair in the bathroom ...
#Person2#: Fixing things? Uh, boy, I'm beat. I think I'm going to hit the sack.
#Person1#: You're going to bed?
#Person2#: Yeah. I have to get up early tomorrow ...
#Person1#: ... and then you're going to fix the bathroom?
#Person2#: Good night.
#Person1#: Okay. Too bad, though. There's a basketball game on right now, but ... but I guess you can catch the score in tomorrow's newspaper.
#Person2#: Oh, okay. I'll stay up and keep you company while I ... I mean, you ... I mean, WE watch the game.
#Person1#: I thought you'd change your mind. I'll get the popcorn.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are watching TV. #Person1# offers many choices but #Person1# isn't interested in all these shows and wants to go to bed. #Person1# finally suggests a basketball game and #Person2# decides to stay and watch.


#Person1#: Have you had any publications?
#Person2#: Yes. I have published some articles in China Daily and Economist.
#Person1#: How about your communication skills?
#Person2#: As a journalist, I have strong communication skills. I am good at both discourse management and strategic competence.

Summary: #Person1# interviews #Person2#. #Person2# has published in China Daily and Economist and has strong communication skills.


#Person1#: How are your wedding plans going?
#Person2#: Very well. We started organizing everything early to avoid a last minute rush to get things done.
#Person1#: When will your wedding take place?
#Person2#: At ten o'clock on the morning of next Sunday. We have invited all our relatives to the wedding.
#Person1#: It will be a large church one. Is your wedding dress ready?
#Person2#: Yes, its design is very elaborate and the designer took many weeks to make it.
#Person1#: You will be very beautiful on your wedding day.
#Person2#: Thank you!
#Person1#: Which hotel will the reception be held at?
#Person2#: The Palace Hotel.
#Person1#: It's excellent. A friend of mine had her wedding reception there and said it was perfect, though very expensive.
#Person2#: It will be expensive, but we think it will be worth.
#Person1#: I think you made the right decision.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s wedding will be on next Sunday with a reception at the Palace Hotel and #Person2#'s dress is elaborate. #Person1# thinks that's the right decision.


#Person1#: Oh!!! I have a horrible toothache.
#Person2#: You should go to the dentist.
#Person1#: I hate dentists.
#Person2#: Well, suffer then. If you have a toothache, you have to go to the dentist.
#Person1#: It always hurts. I hate going.
#Person2#: Stop being such a baby. If it really hurts that much, just let them knock you out.
#Person1#: O. K ., O. K ., I ' ll go.
#Person2#: Good. You feel better after you do.

Summary: #Person1# has a toothache. #Person2# persuades #Person1# into seeing a dentist.


#Person1#: I'd like to reserve a room.
#Person2#: Which date would that be?
#Person1#: For the night of April 18th, for one night.
#Person2#: I'm afraid our hotel is fully booked on that night. Is it possible for you to change your reservation date?
#Person1#: No, I'm afraid not.
#Person2#: We might have cancellations. Could you call us again some other day?
#Person1#: Sure, but if you do have any cancellations, could you let me know as soon as possible?
#Person2#: I'm very sorry, sir, but we are unable to do that. We would appreciate it very much if you could call us instead.
#Person1#: OK, thanks.

Summary: #Person1# wants to reserve a room but #Person2# tells #Person1# that their hotel is fully booked.


#Person1#: It's terrible how things have changed. You remember there used to be trees on all these hills.
#Person2#: Really? There aren't many left now.
#Person1#: No, they've all been cut down and now all the soil is washing away.
#Person2#: Were there any animals in the forest?
#Person1#: Yes, I can remember it very well that there used to be all sorts of animals and birds. But nowadays you just don't see the birds that you used to see around here.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about environmental changes. #Person1# says trees have been cut down and animals have left.


#Person1#: Why have you stopped production?
#Person2#: We've had a few problems. One of the bolts has worked loose and a blade has snapped off.
#Person1#: OK. Make sure the power is switched off then tighten up all the bolts on the unit and replace the broken blade. Why is there oil all over the floor?
#Person2#: I think the valve is faulty. I couldn't regulate the pressure and the seal burst. I tried opening the emergency valve but it was jammed.
#Person1#: Clean up the mess first, then fit a new seal and check the valve.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the reason why the production stopped and there's oil over the floor. #Person1# asks #Person2# how to deal with it.


#Person1#: You are looking really healthy lately. What are you doing differently?
#Person2#: Thank you for noticing! I've been making a few lifestyle changes over the past year.
#Person1#: Tell me about it. I'm interested.
#Person2#: Well, it all started when my brother challenged me to quit smoking.
#Person1#: Ha! That's right. You used to smoke. I forgot!
#Person2#: When I kicked that habit, I found I had so much more energy. I started exercising.
#Person1#: At the gym?
#Person2#: No. I like to be outside. I took up hiking and mountain biking.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s been making lifestyle changes including quitting smoking and starting exercising, so #Person2# looks healthy.


#Person1#: Hello? This is Steven. I'd like to speak to Mr. Brown, please.
#Person2#: I'm afraid he is not in at the moment.
#Person1#: Then what time do you think he will be in?
#Person2#: I suppose he won't come back until 6 p. m. By the way, do you want to call later, or would you like to leave a message?
#Person1#: I'd like to leave a message. Please ask him to give me a call as soon as he returns. He has my number.
#Person2#: Okay, I'll do that.
#Person1#: Thank you. Bye-bye!
#Person2#: You're welcome, bye!

Summary: Steven calls for Mr. Brown who isn't available, so Steven requests #Person2# to leave a message.


#Person1#: How about you, Chuck? Where did you grow up?
#Person2#: Well, I was born in Ohio, but I grew up in Texas.
#Person1#: And when did you come to Los Angeles?
#Person2#: In 1978. I went to college here.
#Person1#: Oh. What was your major?
#Person2#: Drama. I was an actor for five years after college.
#Person1#: That's interesting. So why did you become a hairdresser?
#Person2#: Because I needed the money. And because I was good at it. Look! What do you think?

Summary: #Person1# asks about Chuck's personal experiences and why he became a hairdresser.


#Person1#: what are you doing?
#Person2#: I'm just trying to complete today's crossword puzzle. Whenever I get the time, I like to do the crossword puzzles in the paper.
#Person1#: you really like brains that make you think, don't you?
#Person2#: I guess you could say that. What kind of games do you like?
#Person1#: I guess the games I like the most are the ones that I'm good at!
#Person2#: Doesn't everyone? Which games are those?
#Person1#: Well, I like to play darts. Whenever I go to a bar, I usually play for a few hours.
#Person2#: Did you play a lot of games when you were little?
#Person1#: My parents used to love to play checkers and dominoes. We used to have family tournaments every weekend.
#Person2#: Do you still like playing those games?
#Person1#: Not at all. I never really did, to be honest. What about you? Did your family used to play games together?
#Person2#: Everyone in my family really enjoys playing card games.
#Person1#: Some of my friends play cards on the internet. Have you ever tried that?
#Person2#: No, I prefer to play with people I know.
#Person1#: How about mah-jong?
#Person2#: It's a popular game with some people, but I've never played it.
#Person1#: I thought everyone in your country were experts at mah-jong!
#Person2#: I hate to disappoint you, but unlike what most people think, we aren't all exactly the same!

Summary: #Person2# likes to do crossword puzzles and #Person1# likes to play darts. #Person1# thought everyone in #Person2#'s country was experts at mah-jong but #Person2# says people aren't all exactly the same.


#Person1#: Watsup, ladies! Y'll looking'fine tonight. May I have this dance?
#Person2#: He's cute! He looks like Tiger Woods! But, I can't dance. . .
#Person1#: It's all good. I'll show you all the right moves. My name's Malik.
#Person2#: Nice to meet you. I'm Wen, and this is Nikki.
#Person1#: How you feeling', vista? Mind if I take your friend'round the dance floor?
#Person2#: She doesn't mind if you don't mind getting your feet stepped on.
#Person1#: Right. Cool! Let's go!

Summary: Malik invites Nikki to dance. Nikki agrees if Malik doesn't mind getting his feet stepped on.


#Person1#: Shall we have some soup first?
#Person2#: No, thank you. I don't like soup. I'd rather have some fruit juice to start with.
#Person1#: Ok, and what about the main course? Which would you rather have, fish or meat?
#Person2#: Meat, I think.
#Person1#: Don't you like fish then?
#Person2#: I do, but I want meat.
#Person1#: Shall we have some white wine then?
#Person2#: Yes, but I prefer red wine with meat.
#Person1#: What would you like for dessert?
#Person2#: I just want to have a coffee, I think.
#Person1#: Fine, and after dinner, shall we go to a disco?
#Person2#: No, thanks. I'd like to go straight home. I'm very tired.

Summary: #Person2# rejects all of #Person1#'s suggestions on the meal and disco.


#Person1#: Hi, I come to pick up my laundry. This is the invoice.
#Person2#: Here you are. We've ironed them for you already. Please check and see if there is any damage.
#Person1#: I'm afraid that a button is missing.
#Person2#: I'm terribly sorry. You know we are so busy today and we forget to sew the button back on. Please wait a moment. It will be ready soon.
#Person1#: OK, please.
#Person2#: Would you like to have a look? Is it to your satisfaction?
#Person1#: Well, oh my God, there is another problem, I'm afraid. There is still a stain on the shirt.
#Person2#: It doesn't seem like that. Sorry, sir, we've tried everything, but we're not able to get it off the shirt. It was from the sugar I think.
#Person1#: It's been several days now, I am not sure.
#Person2#: Yes, the sugar was burnt during the dry-cleaning process. And there you go.
#Person1#: Oh, that's so bad. I know little about that. Is there a remedy for it?
#Person2#: I am awfully sorry. Please tell us about the stains before the dry-cleaning next time.
#Person1#: OK, I will.
#Person2#: This is a membership card. You can get a 20 percent discount next time.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot.
#Person2#: Hope to see you again. We will provide the best service.

Summary: #Person1# comes to pick up #Person1#'s laundry. #Person1# checks the laundry and finds a button missing and a stain on the shirt. #Person2# sews the button back but cannot get off the stain. #Person2# apologizes and gives #Person1# a membership card.


#Person1#: Hi, Don, so nice to see you.
#Person2#: Pam, where have you been for the last 3 months? I never see you anymore.
#Person1#: Oh, I've been working strange hours these days. I don't see much of anyone anymore.
#Person2#: Well, I understand. I wish I could stay and talk, but here comes my bus. Why don't we go out sometime?
#Person1#: I'd like that. Call me soon.
#Person2#: Sure, are you still living in the same apartment?
#Person1#: On Walker Avenue.
#Person2#: OK, take care.
#Person1#: Yeah, you too. Catch you later.

Summary: Pam has been working strange hours so Don hasn't seen him for months. Don invites Pam to go out sometime.


#Person1#: We are on our way. I think our first stop is Buckingham Palace.
#Person2#: That's right. I can already see the Palace Garden on the left.
#Person1#: And here is Buckingham Palace! Look, isn't it beautiful? It is much bigger than I imagined.
#Person2#: The bus is turning right to Buckingham Gate. And now we are joining Victoria Street.
#Person1#: Yes we are going towards Westminster Abbey. I can see it now! Look to your right.
#Person2#: I can see it. The bus is stopping. I think we will be able to go inside.
#Person1#: This is amazing. I'm glad we decided to take this bus tour. So where next?
#Person2#: I guess we should see Big Ben soon.
#Person1#: Yes. It is just round the corner. Oh, can you see the London Eye? Look straight and to your right.
#Person2#: Look at this bridge. We will soon be crossing the Thames.
#Person1#: This is Lambeth Bridge. We will then loop back and cross the river again on Westminster Bridge.
#Person2#: Wonderful.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are taking a bus tour. They see Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, London Eye, and Lambeth Bridge. They think the tour is wonderful.


#Person1#: Wow, the view from the peak is so grand!
#Person2#: Look, most of the maple leaves have turned red.
#Person1#: Did you ever see this kind of beautiful scene?
#Person2#: Of course, my father used to take me to Xiang Shan or somewhere like that as a child.
#Person1#: But my father did not. He didn't have much time.
#Person2#: Honey, I'm sorry. I promise you, this summer vacation, I will take you to Huang-Shan Mountains. It is more beautiful and magnificent.
#Person1#: Really? It's a deal. Have you ever been there?
#Person2#: Yes, I went there five years ago. You were still a baby at that time.
#Person1#: It really gets me interested. Is it higher than Xiang Shan?
#Person2#: Surely. You can enjoy the beauty of numerous streams and waterfalls. The sea of clouds has a fairy tale beauty.
#Person1#: Can I see the rainbow?
#Person2#: That depends. If you are lucky, you can see a vivid rainbow across over two peaks.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are pleased with the view from the peak. #Person2# promises they will go to Huang Shan. If they are lucky they will see rainbows there.


#Person1#: Daddy, what's next? What else do we do now?
#Person2#: There is a man-made fishing pond nearby. So, What do you think of going fishing there?
#Person1#: Great. Let's go. Where is it?
#Person2#: Patience, boy. A watched pot never boils. We shall get out fishing stuff first and make some baits, too.
#Person1#: We have many cookies left here. Can we use them as baits?
#Person2#: I don't think fish would like them. Instead, they love earth worms.
#Person1#: So let's go and catch earth worms!
#Person2#: OK. I think that's enough for today. Let's go.
#Person1#: Daddy, do you think we're gonna catch any fish today? We've been fishing here for more than two hours, and we get nothing.
#Person2#: That's because you're talking to me all the time. Be patient, or there will be no chance to have sashimi for dinner today.
#Person1#: I love sashimi. Did mom bring any soy sauce for that?
#Person2#: I suppose she did. Be quiet. There is a fish on the hook. Here it is. Look, a big one.
#Person1#: Cool. Hey, I've got an idea. Why don't we cook it separately? Half for sashimi, and the other half for grill.
#Person2#: Great idea. But the fact is we have no barbecue with us. Moreover, the sashimi will be great. So why do we bother to waste time on barbecuing the fish?
#Person1#: Well, all right. There is nothing to complain about.

Summary: #Person2# and #Person1# get out fishing stuff, catch earthworms as baits, and go fishing. After two hours of fishing, they get nothing. #Person2# tells #Person1# to be patient and quiet and #Person2# finally catches a big fish. They will have sashimi.


#Person1#: What are your plans for today Mark? Nick and I are going shopping. Do you want to come too?
#Person2#: Well as a matter of fact. I'm eating Steve. He's writing an article and he's asked me to take some photos for it.
#Person1#: An article? About What?
#Person2#: Oh, just People. Anyway, I'm seeing Steve at the zoo at 10.
#Person1#: Oh. well, let's meet for lunch shall we? How about that sandwich bar we went to on Friday? I'll see you there about 12:30.
#Person2#: Sounds good. See you.

Summary: #Person1# invites Mark to shop, but Mark has to help Steve take photos. They'll meet for lunch then.


#Person1#: Have you been to the new Chinese market?
#Person2#: No, I only shop at small local stores. That place looks huge.
#Person1#: You should really go. It has everything you could need to make your Vietnamese food too. They have imported items from several countries. The vegetables are pretty fresh and the meat is of good quality.
#Person2#: But how are the prices?
#Person1#: There are great deals, especially for dried foods. I bought a 10-pound-bag of rice for $5, and I found 2 pounds of special noodles for a dollar. There are hundreds of sauces in jars. I even found a Thai sauce there that I couldn't find anywhere else. I think you'll be very happy with what you find at this market.
#Person2#: Well, I will check it out on Monday. I wonder if they have the pho noodles that I like a lot.
#Person1#: Probably. You should go on Saturday instead. That's when they have the best deals.
#Person2#: I hate crowds. Everyone will be going at that time.
#Person1#: Then try Sunday morning. But I don't think the sales last all weekend.

Summary: #Person1# suggests #Person2# going to the Chinese market for good deals. Since #Person2# dislikes big crowds, #Person1# suggests going on Sunday mornings.


#Person1#: James, you have a large collection of stamps, haven't you?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm really proud of it. I have thousands of stamps from most countries of the world.
#Person1#: Wow, that's great. How did you get all of them?
#Person2#: Sometimes I took used stamps off envelopes, but mostly my dad brought them back from his travels. Some of the stamps in my collection are of great value. Drop over sometime and I'll show you my collection.
#Person1#: Thanks, I will.

Summary: James tells #Person1# about his stamp collection and how he got these stamps.


#Person1#: Mom, I want to get a motorcycle. Is that all right with you?
#Person2#: You mean a murder cycle? Did you know more cyclists die in accidents than motorists?
#Person1#: Mom! I'll wear a helmet and I'll drive sane. I promise.
#Person2#: I'll tell you what. You can get a motorcycle on one condition.
#Person1#: What's that?
#Person2#: You spend two weeks with dad in his ambulance as an EMT trainee and volunteer at the emergency room for one month.
#Person1#: And after that?
#Person2#: After that, we'll let you decide if you still want a murder, I mean motorcycle.

Summary: #Person1# wants a motorcycle. #Person2# thinks it's dangerous and wants #Person1# to see the accidents in the ambulance and at the emergency room first.


#Person1#: So do you believe in palmistry?
#Person2#: Palmistry? What is that?
#Person1#: It's when someone takes a look at another person's palm4 to tell the future.
#Person2#: Oh, you mean palm reading5. I've seen that before, but I don't believe in it.
#Person1#: Are you sure? I've read a lot about palmistry and I've been able to tell a lot of accurate things about a person from his palm. Do you want me to take a look at your hand?
#Person2#: Really? You've read books about it? Ok, then. But only if you want to.
#Person1#: Ok, let's see, well, you've got a long life line, which is good, and the love line is strong ... ...
#Person2#: What else do you see? Will I be successful? Will I make a lot of money?
#Person1#: Hmm, hard to say, wait, yes, it looks like you will do well in business, and your ambition will help you a lot, but ... ...
#Person2#: What? What is it? What's the matter?
#Person1#: You seem to have a large gullibility line. You believe everything that you're told.
#Person2#: Hey!

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# about palmistry and takes a look at #Person2#'s hand. #Person2# believes everything #Person1# tells at first, and the #Person2# finds out that #Person1# plays a joke on #Person2#.


#Person1#: Do you think chinese families have changed much in the last 50 years?
#Person2#: I think families everywhere have changed a lot in the last 5 decades.
#Person1#: What do you think is the biggest change?
#Person2#: Well, in the past, three or four generations would live together under the same roof. Nowadays, living in the same city as one's relatives is becoming rare.
#Person1#: That's true. You know, some husbands and wives don't even live in the same city any more.
#Person2#: Would you consider having your parents live with you when they get older?
#Person1#: I guess I'm a bit old-fashioned. I'd rather have my parents live with me than live in a retirement room.
#Person2#: That's very respectable, but I could never live with my parents. I usually only see them at our christmas celebration, and that's enough!
#Person1#: How about your other siblings? Do they spend a lot of time with your parents?
#Person2#: Two of my sisters still live at home, even though they have already graduated from university and have good jobs. They enjoy spending their free time with my parents. I guess in that respect, I'm the black sheep of the family.
#Person1#: I see. Do your parents ever ask you to come home to visit them more often?
#Person2#: They're always asking me to come home, but I think our relationship is better if we keep a distance from each other. Whenever we see each other, all we do is fight.

Summary: #Person2# thinks the biggest change of Chinese families is that family members rarely live together now. #Person1# would like to live with #Person1#'s parents while #Person2# prefers keeping a distance from parents and seeing them occasionally.


#Person1#: Hello, Robert speaking.
#Person2#: Hi, it's Emma. I'm glad you're there. It's about our appointment on Wednesday morning. I'm afraid I can't make it now.
#Person1#: Oh, that's a shame.
#Person2#: I'm sorry. There was a change in my business partner's plan. And Wednesday is the only day she is able to see me.
#Person1#: That's okay. But we need to find another date.
#Person2#: I could manage sometime Thursday. How about you?
#Person1#: Sorry, I got an important meeting all day. What about Friday?
#Person2#: I'll go to an exhibition in the morning, but I could come to your office after that.
#Person1#: Great! Look forward to seeing you then. Bye!

Summary: Emma can't make the appointment with Robert on Wednesday. Ultimately, they decide to meet on Friday.


#Person1#: Excuse me, I'd like to send this parcel.
#Person2#: What's in it, please?
#Person1#: Just a few shirts.
#Person2#: OK. You may wrap it now. Please fill in this form and label it. ( after a moment ) Would you like it registered?
#Person1#: No, I'd rather send it by ordinary mail.
#Person2#: Nine dollars and fifty cents.
#Person1#: Here you are.
#Person2#: Here's the receipt.
#Person1#: Thank you so much.
#Person2#: You're welcome.

Summary: #Person1# sends a few shirts by ordinary mail with #Person2#'s assistance.


#Person1#: I went on a trip to Africa last month.
#Person2#: Really? Who did you travel with?
#Person1#: My father, mother and my sister.
#Person2#: Did you have a good time?
#Person1#: Yes, and we took many photos.
#Person2#: I am planning to go there this winter.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# traveled to Africa with #Person1#'s family.


#Person1#: Tell me what happened.
#Person2#: Well, I wasn't paying attention when I started to cross the street, and I stepped in front of a taxi. I didn't realize it was still moving.
#Person1#: Can you walk?
#Person2#: Not very well.
#Person1#: Where does it hurt?
#Person2#: My side hurts when I take a step?
#Person1#: Okay, don't try to walk anymore. Don't worry. An ambulance is on the way. You know, you're very lucky; you could have easily been killed in the accident.
#Person2#: Yes, I guess I could have.
#Person1#: You'll have to fill out a form. Do you have any identification with you?
#Person2#: I have my passport. By the way, how did you get here so fast?
#Person1#: Someone dialed 911 and reported the accident. We were in the area and got a radio call. It only took a minute or so to get here.

Summary: #Person2# had an accident when he was crossing the street. A police checks on him and helps #Person2# to call the ambulance and fill out a form.


#Person1#: What's the problem? Things are getting out of hand. You keep sticking your nose where it doesn't belong.
#Person2#: What do you mean?
#Person1#: Now, I am responsible for training new staff, but you keep overriding my authority by trying to pose your methods. I know you are a hotshot college graduate with something to prove. But I don't like your way.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# that #Person2# keeps overriding #Person1#'s authority and #Person1# doesn't like it.


#Person1#: You're just left school, haven't you, Emily?
#Person2#: Yes, I finished last Friday.
#Person1#: You sound relieved.
#Person2#: Well, yes. I don't mind admitting that I am. I enjoyed school, but I did object to having to go in every day once we've done all our exams.
#Person1#: Well, what are you going to do now? Have you made any plans?
#Person2#: Yes, I intend to go to university. That'll be in September. But it all depends on my A level results.
#Person1#: You mean getting into university actually depends on your passing your A level subjects?
#Person2#: Oh, yes.

Summary: Emily's relieved to leave school and plans to go to university but it depends on her A level results.


#Person1#: Hello, my name is Peter Jones. I'm your new neighbor. I just moved in next door.
#Person2#: Oh, nice to meet you. My name is Miss James. I hope you enjoy living here.
#Person1#: I hope so, too. You know when we were considering whether to buy the house, Mr. Johnson, the housing agent told us that jogging was very popular here. I am a big fan of jogging. I used to go jogging every day in my old neighborhood.
#Person2#: Aah, yes. Many people here love to jog. I go jogging twice a week.
#Person1#: Can you tell me a good place to go jogging near here?
#Person2#: Sure, the long coast path along the beach is a perfect place for jogging.
#Person1#: Coast path. Sounds nice. Is it far from here? Can I walk there?
#Person2#: Yes, it's only a 5 minute ride from here.
#Person1#: Oh, I see. Anything in particular I should know about jogging there?
#Person2#: Emm, yeah, just be sure to wear sunglasses there. The sunlight there is very bright and it can be hurt on your eyes.
#Person1#: Thanks for the advice. So are there any other activities to do there on the beach?
#Person2#: Oh, yes, beach volleyball is also very popular. A lot of people play there on the beach.
#Person1#: Wow, that's wonderful. It looks like we're going to have a lot of fun here in the neighborhood.
#Person2#: Yes, I'm sure you will.

Summary: Peter has just moved into a new house and comes to greet his new neighbor, Miss James. He asks Miss James the best place to jog and the tips for jogging there.


#Person1#: Hey, look at these paintings on the wall! Aren't they beautiful? Linda bought some good paintings.
#Person2#: Yeah, very impressive. Oh, this one's marvelous!
#Person3#: Sure, they're very colorful.
#Person4#: Thank you. You are very generous with your compliments.
#Person1#: You know the first thing most Chinese students would ask is how much did this painting cost?
#Person2#: Right. I've noticed that too. They always ask that question before they say anything else.
#Person3#: That's true. Most Chinese do that. I don't know why. It's just a habit. I've noticed that foreigners often make compliments soon after they see a product someone has bought - even if they don't really mean it.
#Person1#: Yeah, we're just different. We can't figure out why many Chinese people don't give big hugs to their own parents after they grow up.
#Person3#: No, we don't do that. At least very few people I know do that.
#Person2#: And as far as I know, it's not common for a Chinese to say, I love you to anyone including his or her soul mate.
#Person4#: Cindy, please don't misunderstand. We're not saying that one way is better than another. They're just different, that's all.

Summary: Linda bought good paintings. #Person1#, Cindy and #Person3# make compliments of them. They begin to talk about Chinese students' attitudes towards compliments. Linda explains that they'are not saying that one way is better than another.


#Person1#: What's up, officer?
#Person2#: Are you aware that you ran through that stop sign?
#Person1#: There was a stop sign?
#Person2#: How could you not notice it?
#Person1#: If there really was a stop sign, I couldn't see it because of the overgrown bushes.
#Person2#: You know. You're right. The bushes are covering the sign.
#Person1#: If I saw the stop sign, I would've stopped for it.
#Person2#: Now that I think about it, I can see how you missed it.
#Person1#: Am I getting a ticket for this?
#Person2#: I'll let you off with a warning.
#Person1#: Thank you, I really do appreciate that.
#Person2#: Don't worry about it. I need to have something done about those bushes.

Summary: #Person1# ran through a stop sign because there are bushes covering the sign. #Person2# will let #Person1# off with a warning.


#Person1#: hi, Emally, do you know that guy over there?
#Person2#: The tall one? Sure, that's Daive, he works with Lily.
#Person1#: He is cute. What dose he do?
#Person2#: I'm not sure, he is a manager I think.
#Person1#: Really? Are you going to introduce us?
#Person2#: Well, he has already taken you know, that's his wife right there.

Summary: Emally tells #Person1# the tall guy over there is Daive. #Person1# wants her to introduce them, but he's already married.