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train_2059
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#Person1#: David, where did you get so many old books?
#Person2#: Some graduates were selling their used books. They were really cheap so I bought some.
#Person1#: But aren't you leaving China in 2 weeks? How can you finish reading so many books?
#Person2#: I'll take them back to America. I want to continue to improve my Chinese so they'll be very helpful.
#Person1#: When will you come to China again?
#Person2#: I don't know. Maybe several years later or maybe next year. That all depends.
#Person1#: Depends on what?
#Person2#: It depends on whether my mom will recover or not. If she is still ill, I cannot leave her to work in China.
|
David will take the old books he bought to America. He tells #Person1# whether he comes back to China depends on his mother's health.
|
train_2060
|
#Person1#: This is beautiful. Are we setting up camp here or are we going to follow the trail down to the river?
#Person2#: Let's rest here for a bit. I told the others to meet us here, so we could take advantage of the view. But we should go down to the river to put up the tents.
#Person1#: How did you find out about this place? It seems pretty far away from towns.
#Person2#: My dad used to live near here. When I was young, my uncle took my brother and me to his cabin and we used to fish there.
#Person1#: Why don't we just sleep there then?
#Person2#: It's abandoned, so there's nothing there. By the way, did you bring the water up from the car?
#Person1#: No, I thought you brought it. Now, we have to go back down to the car.
#Person2#: Calm down. The river flowing all around us is a clean water source.
#Person1#: What was that noise? Oh, Scott!
#Person2#: It's probably the other guys on the trail, unless it's a monster.
#Person1#: Stop joking around.
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Scott tells #Person1# how he found out about the beautiful place. They didn't bring the water but Scott says the river around them is a clean water source.
|
train_2061
|
#Person1#: Tony, two universities have offered to accept you as their student, which would you like to go to?
#Person2#: Can you give me some advice?
#Person1#: California University is near your hometown, while Washington University is 700 miles away.
#Person2#: I don't mind the distance. What about the fees?
#Person1#: Washington University charges about $12,000 a year, while California University charges about $9,000.
#Person2#: I hear there are more foreign students in Washington than in California.
#Person1#: That's because it is in the capital of the US, and more courses are offered there, too.
#Person2#: Well, I still can't decide which University to choose.
#Person1#: Then you should go and visit both of them. This is the only way to help make your mind up.
#Person2#: OK. I'll go and see for myself.
|
#Person1# tells Tony about California University and Washington University that have offered Tony to be their students, but Tony still can't decide. #Person1# then suggests visiting them.
|
train_2062
|
#Person1#: Hello, Mary, how are you today? I hear you weren't well last week.
#Person2#: I'm much better now. Thank you.
#Person1#: What was the matter? Nothing serious I hope.
#Person2#: Oh, no, I had a bad cold and had to stay in bed for 2 days.
#Person1#: I'm glad you're better. Anyway, I hope it was the last cold of the winter and not the first cold of the summer. What about your friend Dan? I hear she's ill, too.
#Person2#: She was ill, but she's all right now. I think she caught my cold.
#Person1#: Everybody seems to have one now. I expect it's the sudden change of weather, 1 day hot and the next day cold.
#Person2#: And very windy, too. That's why I'm wearing a sweater today. What do you think of it? Pretty, isn't it?
#Person1#: It certainly is. It must have cost a lot. Where did you find it?
#Person2#: Oh, I got it at a sale. It was quite cheap.
#Person1#: Really? Well, Mary, I must say it suits you very well. What a pity we men can't wear beautiful sweaters.
#Person2#: Never mind. Let's go and buy one like it to send to your sister Linda in America.
#Person1#: Now that's very kind of you, Mary. I'm really thinking of sending her a present.
|
Mary had a bad cold but she's better now. #Person1# thinks it's the sudden change of weather that causes the cold. Mary is wearing a sweater today which #Person1# thinks beautiful. Mary suggests buying one for #Person1#'s sister Linda.
|
train_2063
|
#Person1#: Hi, I'd like to get my haircut.
#Person2#: Well, can we interest you in today's special? We'll shampoo cut and style your hair for one unbelievable low price of $12.00.
#Person1#: OK, but I just want to get my haircut a little bit. A little off the top and sides. That's all.
#Person2#: No problem. OK, here we go. So what do you do for a living?
#Person1#: I'm a lawyer and I'm in town for a job interview and...
#Person2#: Oops!
#Person1#: What do you mean'oops'? Hey, can I see a mirror?
#Person2#: Nothing to worry about, sir. Relax!
#Person1#: Ouch! That really hurt. What are you doing, anyway? Oh, look at all my hair on the floor. How much are you really cutting off?
#Person2#: Relax. Time for the shampoo.
#Person1#: Hey, you got shampoo in my eyes. Where's the towel? Oh, gosh, you cut my hair too short. I want to talk to the manager now.
#Person2#: I'm sorry, but he's on vacation.
#Person1#: Uh.
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#Person1# comes to get his haircut. #Person2# cuts #Person1#'s hair too short and gets shampoo in his eyes. #Person1# wants to talk to the manager but the manager is on vacation.
|
train_2064
|
#Person1#: Is April Fools Day on Friday or Saturday this year?
#Person2#: I'm almost certain it's on Thursday.
#Person1#: My god, I thought it was on the weekend. I was going to play a joke on my girlfriend and then invite her to a restaurant.
#Person2#: Why can't you invite her out on Thursday?
#Person1#: Because I have an exam on Friday.
#Person2#: Well, you could invite her out on the weekend to celebrate this interesting an late April Fools Day.
#Person1#: I guess I'll have to do that.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# April Fool's Day is on Thursday this year. #Person1# wanted to play a joke on his girlfriend, but he has an exam on Friday, so #Person2# suggests he do it on the weekend.
|
train_2065
|
#Person1#: hey, you look great! how's everything?
#Person2#: yeah, you know what? I've been going to the club regularly. The training really pays off. Now I am in a good shape and I know more about how to keep fit.
#Person1#: really? tell me about it. I haven't gone to the club for a long time. I am too busy with work.
#Person2#: it's important to do proper exercises.
#Person1#: you're right. Too much or too little won't do any good.
#Person2#: the trainer tells me, besides regular sports activities, I should also have a healthy and balanced diet.
#Person1#: sounds reasonable.
#Person2#: we should eat more vegetables instead of junk food to stay energetic.
#Person1#: and fruits!
#Person2#: surely it is. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for fitness.
#Person1#: I've heard that. Does your trainer tell you anything about keeping fit?
#Person2#: yeah, he advises me to stay in a good mood. That can help one to keep sound physical health.
#Person1#: I think if you follow your trainer's advice, you'll be on the right track.
#Person2#: you bet it!
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#Person2# looks great because #Person2#'s been to the training club regularly. #Person2# tells #Person1# that having a healthy and balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying in a good mood help keep physical health.
|
train_2066
|
#Person1#: I am sure we will make it up as soon as possible.
#Person2#: That's nice.
#Person1#: We hope this matter will not affect our good relations in our future dealings.
#Person2#: Of course not. We have cooperated for a long time.
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#Person1# and #Person2# will make up things soon.
|
train_2067
|
#Person1#: Please tell me something about your insurance background.
#Person2#: I majored in international banking at college so I took many insurance courses. And I worked at an insurance company for my graduation field work.
#Person1#: Why do you want to be an insurance agent?
#Person2#: I care about people and I know the importance of insurance.
#Person1#: Do you have any work experience in promotion?
#Person2#: Yes, I do. I have worked as a salesman for P & G Company Ltd.
#Person1#: Do people respond well to you?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm good with people.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s insurance background. #Person2# worked at an insurance company and has work experience in promotion.
|
train_2068
|
#Person1#: Mum, can I finish my homework later?
#Person2#: Sorry. You know the rules.
#Person1#: But I want to watch TV now.
#Person2#: That ' s out of the question.
#Person1#: Please.
#Person2#: Not a chance.
#Person1#: Not even for an hour?
#Person2#: Sorry, it ' s impossible.
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Mum refuses #Person1# to watch TV before finishing homework.
|
train_2069
|
#Person1#: Good evening, Saliva. What's that wonderful aroma from your kitchen? What are you doing now?
#Person2#: I am cooking now!
#Person1#: Are you good at cooking?
#Person2#: I have studied its skills recently at a training school. I plan to run a restaurant, so I have to practise cooking!
#Person1#: It is a good idea. What dish are you cooking now?!
#Person2#: I am steaming fish in a pressure cooker. Have you ever tried steamed fish?
#Person1#: Yes, I have. But the taste of steamed fish at that restaurant is not delicious. The fish is not well-done and too salty.
#Person2#: That's the case. I think there is not enough time to steam it and soy sauce is too much.
#Person1#: I have the same idea as yours.
#Person2#: It's OK. Please have a taste of it.
#Person1#: Thank you. Oh, it's very delicious.
#Person2#: Thank you for your praise.
#Person1#: Besides steamed fish, what else are you good at cooking?
#Person2#: I am good at stewing beef with potato, frying chicken, hot and sour soup etc.
#Person1#: So many dishes. Next Friday week is my birthday. I would like to invite you to cook for my dinner party, OK?
#Person2#: Why not? It is a good opportunity for me to practise cooking.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot.
#Person2#: It's my pleasure.
|
Saliva has to practice cooking because she plans to run a restaurant. She's steaming fish and invites #Person1# to taste it. #Person1# thinks it's delicious. Saliva's good at cooking many other dishes, so #Person1# invites her to cook for #Person1#'s dinner party.
|
train_2070
|
#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.
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#Person1# thinks the campus is big and confusing and tells #Person2# #Person1# is always late for classes. #Person2#'ll tell #Person1# the short cuts.
|
train_2071
|
#Person1#: Tom, is Jenny crying?
#Person2#: Can you take he away from me?
#Person1#: I ' m just coming for that.
#Person2#: She kept bothering me.
#Person1#: She ' s your sister. What she asked was only duck soup for you. Why can ' t you be good to her?
#Person2#: But I am her brother, not her servant.
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Tom asks #Person1# to take Jenny away because she bothers him.
|
train_2072
|
#Person1#: Hello, Bessie.
#Person2#: Hello, Jack. Happy birthday!
#Person1#: My birthday? I forgot it, Thank you for remembering my birthday.
#Person2#: I'd like to offer you my congratulations on your birthday and best wishes for your future happiness, good health and continued success. I've asked the Fairy Flowers to send you a bunch of flowers. I hope you'll like them.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot. I'm so touched.
#Person2#: Now let me sing ' Happy birthday ' for you.
#Person1#: Thank you very much.
|
Bessie celebrates the birthday for Jack, and Jack is touched.
|
train_2073
|
#Person1#: Excuse me, do the buses stop here?
#Person2#: Yes, they all stop at this corner.
#Person1#: I want to go to Broadway and 82nd Street. Can I take any bus that comes along?
#Person2#: You can take any bus except the Number 9.
#Person1#: How often do the buses run?
#Person2#: They run about every five minutes.
#Person1#: Fine. How long does it take to get to 82nd Street?
#Person2#: About fifteen minutes. It's not far. Are you a stranger in New York?
#Person1#: Yes, I am. I arrived only three days ago from Japan.
#Person2#: How do you like New York city?
#Person1#: I like it very much, but it's a little confusing to me.
#Person2#: You'll soon get accustomed to it. It's not difficult. Well, here's the bus. Fortunately, it's not full.
#Person1#: Thank you for the information.
#Person2#: Don't mention it.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# can take any bus except the Number 9 to the street. #Person1# likes New York city but thinks it's a little confusing.
|
train_2074
|
#Person1#: Didn't you punch in this morning, Monica?
#Person2#: Sorry, I don't know the rule about punching.
#Person1#: That's ok. I should have told you earlier. This is a company rule.
#Person2#: Do we also need to punch out after work?
#Person1#: According to the company rule, we should punch in before 8 o'clock and punch out after 5 o'clock every work day.
#Person2#: How about the lunch break, Lucy?
#Person1#: From eleven thirty to 1 o'clock.
#Person2#: May I ask whether we need to work overtime?
#Person1#: Sometimes, but not quite often.
|
#Person1# tells Monica the company rules about punching and time for the lunch break.
|
train_2075
|
#Person1#: I'd like a facial.
#Person2#: Which kind would you like? We have five different varieties of facials.
#Person1#: Which would you recommend?
#Person2#: Well, since it's summer, and I had looked that you had quite a bit sun, I'll recommend our summer special, it's specially suited for individuals with sensitive skin.
#Person1#: What does it included?
#Person2#: The facial will start with thorough cleansing.
#Person1#: Does it include facial mask and massage?
#Person2#: Yes, the reviving mask will promote blood circulation and tighten your skin. You can also choose to get hand or back massage as well.
#Person1#: Will it exfoliate the skin as well?
#Person2#: Yes, we also apply a special day cream that protect the skin from the sun and the night cream that moisturize to the skin.
#Person1#: That sounds great.
|
#Person2# recommends the summer special facial to #Person1#, including thorough cleansing, facial mask, massage, and a special day cream. #Person1# thinks it sounds great.
|
train_2076
|
#Person1#: Have you decided what you are going to take next semester?
#Person2#: Well, I'm an English major, you know. So I came here to make sure I'm taking the right things.
#Person1#: Good. I think it's a good idea. Our department should require meetings like this.
#Person2#: I want to finish my degree in four years. So I don't want to forget to take classes I need. I have a friend who has to stay in college another year. She didn't know until recently. There were some classes she needed to take to graduate. She didn't know about them.
#Person1#: Yes, that happens.
#Person2#: I brought my transcript from my first year. Here. And here is the list of courses I plan to take in the fall.
#Person1#: Alright. Good. I see you've already taken six credits of your breadth requirements. You have one botany class and one chemistry class. And political science. So that's nine credits. Did you take English Composition 201?
#Person2#: No, I don't need to. I took Advanced Placement English in high school. So I'm not required to take composition.
#Person1#: Excellent. I see you have the 18th century poetry class for next semester. And the modern novel class. You haven't taken a Shakespeare class yet.
#Person2#: No, I thought I would take it later.
#Person1#: Actually, I recommend you take Shakespeare sooner rather than later.
#Person2#: Well, I suppose I could cross out the 18th century poetry class. I have to see when the Shakespeare class meets.
#Person1#: Let me look at the timetable. Shakespeare meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11
#Person2#: I can take it then. I have that time slot free.
#Person1#: Good. I recommend it. Shakespeare is of course enormously important. We want our students to take the class as soon as they can. And Professor Friedman is an excellent teacher.
#Person2#: I'll take it then.
#Person1#: Tell me, Lisa, what made you decide to be an English major?
#Person2#: I want to be an English professor in the future. I love studying literature, and I want to teach it.
#Person1#: Really? That's great to know.
#Person2#: That's the reason I want to finish my B. A. in four years. Because I know I will be in school a long time. I want to start the M. A. and Ph. D. program as soon as possible.
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Lisa wants to finish B.A. in four years, so she comes to #Person1# to make sure she takes the right courses. #Person1# suggests Lisa take Shakespeare sooner because it's an important course. Lisa tells #Person1# she decides to be an English major because she wants to be an English professor in the future, and she wants to start the M.A. and Ph.D. program as soon as possible.
|
train_2077
|
#Person1#: Mary, Pam and I are going to the mall later to buy some new clothes. Do you want to come?
#Person2#: Can you say it again slowly?
#Person1#: Pam and I are wondering if you'd like to go to the mall with us.
#Person2#: Oh, I see. I'll have to sink about it.
#Person1#: Sink?
#Person2#: Oops. I meant, ' think '
#Person1#: Mary, you're going to have to work on your pronunciation.
#Person2#: I know.
#Person1#: But give yourself some time. You just got here.
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#Person1# invites Mary to go shopping. Mary says she'll 'sink' about it. #Person1# suggests Mary practice her pronunciation.
|
train_2078
|
#Person1#: How do you do. I'm Mark Rancor.
#Person2#: Nice to meet you.
#Person1#: May I know your name, please?
#Person2#: I'm Rose Teller. I think I'Ve seen you somewhere before?
#Person1#: Ah, yes. I remember now. Were you Mr. John's dinner partner last month?
#Person2#: Yes, I was. You work for 3M, right?
#Person1#: I did but now I'm for Microsoft. How are things with you?
#Person2#: Good.
#Person1#: May I know what you do?
#Person2#: I'm a fashion designer. Next month, I have a fashion show. I'd love it if come. I can get you a couple of tickets. So you can bring a friend if you like.
#Person1#: Sure. That would be great. Good luck.
#Person2#: Thank you.
|
Mark Rancor has met Rose Teller before. Rose invites Mark to come to a fashion show designed by her, and Mark agrees.
|
train_2079
|
#Person1#: Sam, we are hard up for the everyday expenses. When can you find a job.
#Person2#: I'm looking for it, but you see, the market is hard up for jobs, too.
#Person1#: You liar, I saw you again in the inn. I bet you don't want to work at all.
|
Sam says he's looking for a job. #Person1# thinks he's lying.
|
train_2080
|
#Person1#: wow, it that your sports car?
#Person2#: yes, do you like it?
#Person1#: I love it! I used to always want to drive a green jaguar. Is it in good condition?
#Person2#: it looks good on the outside, but the inside is a different story. It needs a lot of servicing before it can go out on the roads again.
#Person1#: what's wrong with it?
#Person2#: well, first of all, it needs a new engine, which is extremely expensive.
#Person1#: when's the last time you had it serviced?
#Person2#: it must have been a few years ago now.
#Person1#: I thought all cars needed regular servicing on a yearly basis.
#Person2#: they do. Once my son was born, there was no reason to drive this car anymore. It's only a two-seater, you know!
#Person1#: what else is wrong with it?
#Person2#: the heating controls don't work anymore, so it always feels like it's about 100 degrees in the car, even in the summer!
#Person1#: anything else?
#Person2#: the brakes don't really work that well anymore either.
#Person1#: why don't you get it all fixed?
#Person2#: it costs more than you think to run a car, especially when there are so many things wrong with it!
#Person1#: well, let me know when you can get it fixed. I'd love to go for a ride in it!
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The green jaguar looks good on the outside, but it needs a new engine, new heating systems, and brakes. #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# hasn't used the two-seat car since #Person2#'s son was born. #Person2# doesn't fix it because it will be costly.
|
train_2081
|
#Person1#: What book is that?
#Person2#: I just bought a new atlas. I'm looking this map of the world. Look at Russia! That's a vast country.
#Person1#: Canada, china, and the use are huge too.
#Person2#: There are several tiny countries in the world too. Countries like Monaco are smaller than many cities.
#Person1#: Those small countries are microscopic compared to Russia. European countries are relatively small. France looks quite big in Europe, but compared to many countries in other continents, it's not very l
#Person2#: Britain is half the size of france, but great Britain is still one of the largest islands in the world.
#Person1#: The thing with large countries is that often they have vast areas of land that are useless or hardly used. Russia and Canada have enormous areas of ice and forest.
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#Person1# is looking at a map of the world and discusses with #Person2# about the large countries like Russia, Canada and China, and tiny countries.
|
train_2082
|
#Person1#: Frank, I want your advice on something. Some scientists I met at the conference 6 this afternoon have invited me to a party. Actually, they called it an informal get-together.
#Person2#: And what's the problem?
#Person1#: When I asked how people were going to dress, Dr. Lite said it was casual.
#Person2#: And you want to know what to wear?
#Person1#: Well, last night I went out with some journalists for a casual party, but I was overdressed. I wore what I consider casual - - an outfit of skirt, blouse, scarf, and medium heels. . . you know.
#Person2#: That sounds just right to me. What was wrong with it?
#Person1#: Everyone else there was wearing blue jeans. Several of the women had on running shoes. I felt out of place. So I have no idea what to wear tonight.
#Person2#: My guess is you can safely wear last night's outfit to tonight's party.
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#Person1# asks Frank to give some advice on what to wear for a casual party. Frank suggests #Person1# wear last night's outfit to tonight's party.
|
train_2083
|
#Person1#: Would you like to come to our party?
#Person2#: I'd like to. But I'm not myself today.
#Person1#: what happened? You look so pale.
#Person2#: It's the end of the world for me.
#Person1#: What makes you say that?
#Person2#: Today, I'm told I failed three courses.
#Person1#: Oh, that's too bad. Work harder next term.
#Person2#: I'm such a fool that duplication of effort is only a waste of time to me.
#Person1#: Don't lose heart. Everything will be fine.
#Person2#: I hope so.
|
#Person2# failed three courses, and #Person1# encourages #Person2# not to lose heart.
|
train_2084
|
#Person1#: Do you want some dessert?
#Person2#: No thanks. We just need our check. Have you seen the waitress?
#Person1#: Where is our waitress anyway?
#Person2#: Yes, the service hasn't been the best. Is that our waitress over there?
#Person1#: I'll walk over and get the bill, since I don't think the waitress is coming over here any time soon.
#Person2#: Good idea. Just bring it back and we'll figure it out together.
#Person1#: So the bill is $ 36. 00.
#Person2#: How much do you think we should leave for a tip?
#Person1#: My first inclination is to leave nothing for a tip.
#Person2#: I agree, but we don't really know the whole story. There may have been problems in the kitchen beyond her control.
#Person1#: Let's leave 10 %, so that we at least leave something for the service.
#Person2#: I agree. We will leave $ 3. 60 for the tip.
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#Person1#'ll walk over and get the bill since the waitress isn't coming over here. #Person1# and #Person2# will leave 10% for the tip.
|
train_2085
|
#Person1#: Hello?
#Person2#: Hello? Mr. Bernie. My name is Lisa. I hope I'm not disturbing you. I just heard about your daughter. I wanted to call you and tell you how much we'll miss her.
#Person1#: I'm sorry. I think you are calling the wrong person. My name is not Mr. Bernie.
#Person2#: What? That's odd. I'm so sorry if I'Ve bothered you.
#Person1#: No problem.
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Lisa wanted to call Mr. Bernie but called the wrong person.
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train_2086
|
#Person1#: You are late.
#Person2#: I'm sorry, it was too cold, and my car couldn't start. I had one to the garage with the heater. I tried to call you, but you couldn't get connection.
#Person1#: Couldn't get connection?
#Person2#: Yes, your number is out of service.
#Person1#: Really? I didn't know. Let me check. You're right.
#Person2#: So I couldn't get through.
#Person1#: It's a serious problem. I make expecting an important call. The theater is guilty. It supposed to call me this evening, and discuss my play. What were happened if they can't reach me?
#Person2#: Well, the only thing you can do is pay the fee to recover your service.
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#Person2# was late because the car couldn't start and couldn't get through #Person1#. #Person2# suggests #Person1# pay the fee to recover #Person1#'s service.
|
train_2087
|
#Person1#: I need some more amenities, please.
#Person2#: I'm not sure I'm following you, sir.
#Person1#: Specifically, I'm talking about the little things, like soap and shampoo.
#Person2#: Oh, now I understand! So, you've already used up all your amenities?
#Person1#: No, I'm not even halfway through my supply.
#Person2#: I'm losing you, sir. What's the problem?
#Person1#: What's the use of going to a hotel if you don't take home souvenirs?
#Person2#: Okay, I got it. You're collecting souvenirs!
#Person1#: There you go. My friends expect me to bring home souvenirs.
#Person2#: Have you visited our souvenir shop, sir? It's loaded with all kinds of items.
#Person1#: I've never paid for a hotel souvenir in my life, and I don't intend to start now.
#Person2#: Sir, housekeeping will bring you a basketful of amenities momentarily.
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#Person1# asks #Person2# for some more amenities because he wants to bring some souvenirs for his friends, but he doesn't want to pay for a hotel souvenir.
|
train_2088
|
#Person1#: what kind of qualities do you look for in your friends?
#Person2#: I like people who are open and friendly. Those people are usually more active and fun to be with. I like spending time with my friends. We go to bars together or play sports together.
#Person1#: I don't like to make friends with people who aren't honest. Honesty is very important to me.
#Person2#: I think it's important to most people. The problem is that you can usually only find out if someone is honest by getting to know them.
#Person1#: you can find out from their friends.
#Person2#: if you know any of their friends. You can't rely on your friends to introduce people to you all the time. You have to go out and make the first move sometimes. I also like funny people.
#Person1#: oh, I don't. they don't seem to take anything seriously. You never know when they are joking and when they are being serious.
#Person2#: sometimes it can be hard to tell, but if you know the person fairly well, you can usually see from their expression what they are really thinking.
#Person1#: it seems that we generally like different kinds of people. How is it that we are such good friends?
#Person2#: maybe people don't like to have friends that are all the same. Most people like a little variety in their lives-including a variety of characteristics in their friends.
|
#Person1# doesn't like to make friends with people who aren't honest. #Person2# likes funny people while #Person1# doesn't because #Person1# thinks they don't seem to take anything seriously. They are good friends although they like different kinds of people.
|
train_2089
|
#Person1#: Excuse me. Could you tell me how to get to the library?
#Person2#: Of course. It's on Memorial Avenue.
#Person1#: On Memorial Avenue?
#Person2#: Right. You know where that is?
#Person1#: I'm afraid I don't. I'm quite new in town.
#Person2#: Well, do you know where the post office is?
#Person1#: No, I don't. But I do know where the shopping mall is.
#Person2#: That won't help us. Let me see now. . . Why don't you follow this street, Elm, until, you get to the second stoplight.
#Person1#: Well, thank you very much, I hope I can find it.
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#Person2# tells #Person1# how to get to the library by following the street until the second stoplight.
|
train_2090
|
#Person1#: Room service. May I come in?
#Person2#: Come in please.
#Person1#: This is your breakfast. Can I put it here?
#Person2#: Sure. How much is it?
#Person1#: That's $ 10.
#Person2#: Well, here is the money.
#Person1#: Sir, you don't have to pay right now. Just sign here and we will charge it to your account.
#Person2#: Fine.
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#Person1# sends breakfast to #Person2# which is charged from #Person2#'s account.
|
train_2091
|
#Person1#: I think we should do the floors before we work on the curtains and walls.
#Person2#: Why? it doesn't make sense. If we do the floors first, and then paint the walls, we will get paint all over our new floor.
#Person1#: Hmm Maybe you're right. But I can't stand all this green carpet here. And besides, I know how to paint. I will just cover everything with drop cloth. I won't get anything on the floor.
#Person2#: Are you sure?
#Person1#: Yes, I'm sure I've done a lot of house painting in my life. And my mother was very picky. If I got even a tiny drop of paint on her furniture, she would get furious. So I learned to be very careful.
#Person2#: Alright. Then maybe we can do the floor first. These wood floors under this carpet are beautiful. And me too,, I can't wait to get all this old carpet out of here. But how can we get it out? Do we have to hire someone?
#Person1#: Absolutely not. We can remove the carpet ourselves. Carpet is held down with carpet nails. You just need to pull it hard and it will come up.
#Person2#: Great. Then, after we remove the carpet, we need to redo all the wood floors. Right?
#Person1#: Yes. But we should hire someone for that. That will probably be expensive. And it has to be done right.
#Person2#: And then, after the floors are done, we can start to move our furniture in.
#Person1#: Sure. If we can get an appointment with someone to do the floors, we should probably be able to have the furniture in here after a week or so. I can get all the carpet out this weekend.
|
#Person1# will paint the wall and will be careful not to get anything on the floor. #Person1# says they can remove the carpet themselves, and #Person2# will get an appointment with someone to do the floors and then have the furniture after a week.
|
train_2092
|
#Person1#: How long have we had the A3 printer in the sales department?
#Person2#: Just over a year I think. Why, what's the problem?
#Person1#: I'm not sure but there seems to be something wrong with it. Is it still under guarantee?
#Person2#: I think the guarantee's just run out. Let me check. Oh, it's OK. We took out an extended warranty, it runs until next March.
|
#Person1# asks the printer's guarantee time. #Person2# checks and finds it's still under guarantee.
|
train_2093
|
#Person1#: Hello, this is Wal-mart. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Hello. What time do you close, please?
#Person1#: We close at 10:00 every day. And we open at 9:00 in the morning.
#Person2#: Oh. Ok. And are you open on the weekends?
#Person1#: Same hours as on the weekdays.
#Person2#: Wow. You guys never take a break! I want to come in and have a look at your sale. Your sale is still on, isn't it?
#Person1#: Yes, it runs till the end of the month. But things are clearing out fast.
#Person2#: Ok, I'll come down tonight. Thanks.
#Person1#: Thank you for calling.
|
#Person2# calls #Person1# to ask about Wal-mart's opening hours and will go there for sale tonight.
|
train_2094
|
#Person1#: I feel terrible sick, miss. I wonder if I could change my seat to the front part.
#Person2#: Please wait a moment. . I am sorry right now there is no vacant seat. I have to ask.
#Person1#: Thank you.
#Person2#: By the way, hold your bag in case you vomit.
|
#Person1# asks #Person2# to change #Person1#'s seat to the front.
|
train_2095
|
#Person1#: May I help you?
#Person2#: My daughter. She is missing. I don't know where she is.
#Person1#: What dose she look like?
#Person2#: She has blond hair and blue eyes.
#Person1#: What was she wearing?
#Person2#: She has a yellow dress on and red sneakers.
#Person1#: When did you last see her?
#Person2#: I just saw her down the street. I don't know where she is.
#Person1#: How long has it been?
#Person2#: Oh, it's been uh. . . fifteen minutes.
|
#Person1#'s daughter is missing. #Person2# asks #Person1# some information about #Person1#'s daughter.
|
train_2096
|
#Person1#: Hi, Becky, what's up?
#Person2#: Not much, except that my mother-in-law is driving me up the wall.
#Person1#: What's the problem?
#Person2#: She loves to nit-pick and criticizes everything that I do. I can never do anything right when she's around.
#Person1#: For example?
#Person2#: Well, last week I invited her over to dinner. My husband and I had no problem with the food, but if you listened to her, then it would seem like I fed her old meat and rotten vegetables. There's just nothing can please her.
#Person1#: No, I can't see that happening. I know you're a good cook and nothing like that would ever happen.
#Person2#: It's not just that. She also criticizes how we raise the kids.
#Person1#: My mother-in-law used to do the same thing to us. If it wasn't disciplining them enough, then we were disciplining them too much. She also complained about the food we fed them, the schools we sent them too, and everything else under the sun.
#Person2#: You said she used to? How did you stop her?
#Person1#: We basically sat her down and told her how we felt about her constant criticizing, and how we welcomed her advice but hoped she'd let us do our things. She understood, and now everything is a lot more peaceful.
#Person2#: That sounds like a good idea. I'll have to try that.
|
Becky tells #Person1# that her mother-in-law loves to criticize everything she does, like the food she made and the ways how they raise kids. #Person1#'s mother-in-law used to do the same thing, but she stopped after they talked with her. Becky will try it.
|
train_2097
|
#Person1#: Hi there, Mr. Brown. Are you depositing or withdrawing today?
#Person2#: Sorry to say it, but neither of those. I'm here to close our account with you. The market around here has been dropping for a while now, and it's just not sensible for us to stay.
#Person1#: I understand. So, what would you like to do with the balance?
#Person2#: I guess I should just withdraw everything.
#Person1#: 215, 000 RMB is the exact balance. If you could just sign your name here.
#Person2#: Here you go. That's everything, then. Thanks very much for your service over the years.
|
Mr. Brown asks #Person2# to close his account and withdraw everything since the market's been dropping.
|
train_2098
|
#Person1#: So you work in a hotel now.
#Person2#: Yes. That's right.
#Person1#: What's it like?
#Person2#: It's nice. You meet a lot of interesting people, but a lot of dull ones, too.
#Person1#: I beg your pardon?
#Person2#: I said, a lot of dull ones, too.
#Person1#: Oh, yes. I can imagine. I should think that's a hard work, isn't it?
#Person2#: Yes and no. It depends.
#Person1#: What do you mean?
#Person2#: Well, it's hard at weekends. I mean, last Saturday, with all the rooms full and two receptionists away ill--well, my feet didn't touch the ground. What about you?
#Person1#: I started to work in a bank last Monday.
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#Person2# works in a hotel that can meet interesting people as well as dull ones. #Person1# started to work in a bank.
|
train_2099
|
#Person1#: Wait, Ben, did you say you had a party on Saturday?
#Person2#: Yeah, didn't you know about it? It was my birthday.
#Person1#: No, I didn't.
#Person2#: But I invited you. I sent you an e-mail last week.
#Person1#: Are you sure? I didn't get it. Oh, you know what? I didn't tell you I have a new e-mail address. Oh, I am sorry.
#Person2#: That's OK. But I was kind of upset that you wasn't there.
#Person1#: Really? I was upset too. And the bike trip is just awful. We got lost for four hours.
#Person2#: Oh, that's terrible.
#Person1#: Listen, let's go out for lunch this week. I want to do something for your birthday.
#Person2#: Oh, you don't have to.
#Person1#: I know. But I want to.
#Person2#: OK. That's really nice of you, really. So anyway, I have to go now. I have a meeting at 9:30.
#Person1#: OK. See you later and happy birthday.
|
#Person1# didn't know Ben had a birthday party since #Person1# didn't tell Ben #Person1# has a new e-mail. #Person1# asks Ben for lunch to do something for Ben's birthday.
|
train_2100
|
#Person1#: How came you were absent from class yesterday morning, Henry?
#Person2#: I'm sorry, Madam. My cousin was coming home from England, and I had to go to the airport with my father to meet him.
#Person1#: Better ask for permission next time.
|
Henry explains why he's absent from class to #Person1#.
|
train_2101
|
#Person1#: Hello, Milton Hotel Reservations. How may I assist you?
#Person2#: Hi, I'm calling to make some changes to an existing reservation.
#Person1#: Certainly. Do you have the reservation number?
#Person2#: Sure, it's 219.
#Person1#: That's a reservation for Sally Menkel. Is that right?
#Person2#: Yes, that's right. I'd like to change the check-in date from September 15 to September 16.
#Person1#: Certainly. I can make that change for you. Is that the only change?
#Person2#: No, the check-out date will also change from the 23rd to the 24th.
#Person1#: No problem. We have you arriving on the 16th of September and leaving the 24th of September - altogether, eight nights. Will there be anything else?
#Person2#: Yes. Instead of a courtyard room, I'd like a room with a view, preferably on an upper floor.
#Person1#: I can certainly change that for you, but there will be a change in the room rate. The new rate is $199 per night, instead of the original $179.
#Person2#: That's OK. These are all the changes. Thank you very much.
#Person1#: You're welcome. Have a nice day!
|
Sally calls Milton Hotel to make changes to an existing reservation. She asks to change the check-in date and check-out date and prefers a room on an upper floor with a view.
|
train_2102
|
#Person1#: Do you collect cola cans, Steve?
#Person2#: No. Why do you ask?
#Person1#: You have so many empty cans here.
#Person2#: Well, my mum wants me to keep all the cans, so that we can sell them after a while.
#Person1#: Aha, you are going to make a millionaire of yourself sooner or later with all those cans.
#Person2#: You bet I will. Well, that's not the point. The point is we separate reusable things from other rubbish. We have to pay the dustman for dealing with rubbish, but if we sell him these cans and other reusable material we pay less.
#Person1#: That sounds a clever idea. Now what are reused in China?
#Person2#: Metal, plastic, paper, books and the like.
#Person1#: Just as we do back home in the States.
#Person2#: And to avoid waste, the government is limiting the production of goods that can be used only once, such as bamboo chopsticks. For example, all the fast food boxes should be made of paper instead of non-reusable material.
#Person1#: That will surely be helpful for a clean environment.
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Steve keeps all the cans, so they can pay less to the dustman for dealing with rubbish. Steven tells #Person1# what is reused in China and the government's measures on avoiding waste.
|
train_2103
|
#Person1#: Hello? Um, can I get some help over here?
#Person2#: Sure thing. What'll it be?
#Person1#: A menu, please.
#Person2#: We don't serve food - just the beers you see on the wall.
#Person1#: All right. What about that one? It's German, right?
#Person2#: Yeah, it is. Is that what you'd like?
#Person1#: Sure, that'll do. But I'd like a cold one if you've got one.
#Person2#: Sure thing, sweetie. That'll be $6.25.
#Person1#: Say, you're kinda friendly, aren't you?
#Person2#: I suppose it comes with the job. It pays to be nice to people, don't you think?
#Person1#: I suppose it does. That's what my mother said to me anyway. Oh, wait. Wait a second. Oh, no. I can't believe this!
#Person2#: What's wrong?
#Person1#: I think I left my wallet somewhere.
#Person2#: It's gotta be around here. Maybe on the floor?
#Person1#: No. It's not there. I don't know where it could be. Any chance you can be nice and give me that beer for free?
#Person2#: No chance of that happening. If no one's paying, I'm not so nice.
|
#Person2# is very friendly when #Person1# asks for the beer. But when #Person1# says #Person1# left the wallet and asks beer for free, #Person2# becomes not so nice.
|
train_2104
|
#Person1#: I feel terrible. I really need to relax. Do you know any good ways to fight stress?
#Person2#: Yeah, in fact, I read in a health magazine that you should drink two cups of lemon tea every day to fight stress.
#Person1#: Lemon tea?
#Person2#: That's right. Lemon tea makes you feel more relaxed. And also, you should eat low stress foods like apples and grapes.
#Person1#: Sounds very strange, I guess hamburgers and French fries cause stress, right?
#Person2#: Yep. Hamburgers are high stress food.
#Person1#: Well, I guess I need to change my diet.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# drinking lemon tea and eating low-stress food are good ways to fight stress.
|
train_2105
|
#Person1#: I love slim girls, don't you?
#Person2#: Not particularly. I like fat girls.
#Person1#: And I like a girl with good skin, do you?
#Person2#: I can't say I do. What I like a girl with good manners.
#Person1#: Well, yes. But surely you like a girl with a nice figure.
#Person2#: Yes. But I like a girl with a nice personality.
#Person1#: But you like a girl to be rich, surely?
#Person2#: Not particularly. I like a girl to be good.
#Person1#: What about you, Henry? You haven't said a thing.
#Person3#: I don't like girls. I think they're awful.
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#Person1# likes a girl with a nice figure, while #Person2# likes a girl with a nice personality. Henry doesn't like girls.
|
train_2106
|
#Person1#: You won't believe who's been elected to do overtime on the Baker account! Me! I've already logged in 20 hours of overtime!
#Person2#: Wow! Why so much? I thought they were getting you an assistant.
#Person1#: They were supposed to, but so far nobody's turned up, and I'm left on my own to do the work. This is the first break I've had all day.
#Person2#: They're really running you into the ground. Why don't you ask for some time off? You could take a long weekend and go away somewhere.
|
#Person1#'s been elected to do overtime without an assistant. #Person2# suggests #Person1# ask for some time off.
|
train_2107
|
#Person1#: I'm reading an interesting report on Mars.
#Person2#: Oh, what does it say? Does it say water could still exist under the surface of Mars?
#Person1#: Absolutely! It says there is water on Mars buried beneath the surface. It's just a matter of how deep it is.
#Person2#: Then could the soil on Mars somehow be fertile enough to groh simple plants?
#Person1#: The soil would need quite a bit of fertilizer to grow anything. And it would need to be protected from the UV radiation.
#Person2#: Actually, we are doing a project in school that involves landing a ship and staying on Mars for an extended period of time. Doef NASA have any type of portable habitats that could be used to stay on the planet?
#Person1#: I'm not sure NASA has built any porteble habitats for extended stays on Mars , but they have looked at various designs.
#Person2#: One of the most exciting things about Mars is that there could have bean life on it. What are your personal opinions on the life on Mars theory?
#Person1#: Well, I'm not really an expert in this area, but my understanding is that anything is possible. It's just that it is so hard to determine what went on 4. 5 billion years ago.
#Person2#: But maybe there is a chance of gradually improving the surface and atmosphere of Mars so it may be inhabitable by humans.
#Person1#: I'm skeptical. Mars is made of rocks containing silicon,iron, and various minerals. It also has an atmosphere of carbon dioxide. It is so different from what we have on earth, you know.
#Person2#: I'd still like to hope that some day we could set up a human colony there.
#Person1#: But there are still other big problems we need to solve such as prolonged weightlessness, food storage, and a series of physiological effects.
|
#Person1# tells #Person2# that there is water on Mars buried beneath the surface. The soil would need quite a bit of fertilizer to grow anything. One of the most exciting things about Mars is that there could have been life on it. #Person1# is skeptical about the assumption that Mars may be inhabitable by humans since it's so different from the earth.
|
train_2108
|
#Person1#: Well, I finished my last final today.
#Person2#: The end of all the hard work for my master's. what a nice feeling to get my degree!
#Person1#: Do you want to attend the convocation?
#Person2#: Certainly. After years of hard work, I wouldn't miss it. By the way, where can I find cap and gown?
#Person1#: Do you want to have them made or do you want to rent them?
#Person2#: Oh, I think they're provided by the school for that special day.
#Person1#: No. those you have to provide for yourself.
#Person2#: What do most of the students do?
#Person1#: Well, most of them only need a cap and gown for that particular convocation service, but some of the education majors have had them made, bucause they will be faculty members, and they'll need them for student commencement each year.
#Person2#: Then, I might as well have them made.
#Person1#: Mary, don't move. Stand right there. It's a good shot. The background is very pretty.
#Person2#: Hold it a second. I want to fix my hairpin.
#Person1#: It doesn't matter. Say'cheese'.
#Person2#: Here's Lisa. May I take a picture with her?
#Person3#: Certainly. Ok, got you.
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Mary will attend the convocation and have a cap and gown made. #Person1# helps take some photos for Mary and asks Lisa to take a picture for them.
|
train_2109
|
#Person1#: Hey, Tyler. Long time no see.
#Person2#: Sylvia, I haven't seen you here at the gym for ages.
#Person1#: Yeah, I've just been too busy to work out.
#Person2#: How's school going?
#Person1#: Everything is OK, except for an 8:00 o'clock math class I have.
#Person2#: 8:00 o'clock math class. A friend of mine is also in that class.
#Person1#: Really? What's his name?
#Person2#: Zach Peterson. Do you know him?
#Person1#: I think so.
#Person2#: He tells me that the morning math class is his favorite.
|
Sylvia's been too busy and has problems with an 8:00 math class. But Tyler's friend likes it.
|
train_2110
|
#Person1#: Jeff, what's your favorite Mexican holiday?
#Person2#: Definitely the Day of the Dead.
#Person1#: What is that? It sounds a little scary.
#Person2#: It's not really scary for us Mexicans. Actually, that day we celebrate, well, not celebrate, but remember our family members who are already dead.
#Person1#: OK. How do you remember them?
#Person2#: We put a big table decorated with flowers, bread, coffee or whatever the person that is dead used to like. And we think that on that day, that person is going to come back from the dead.
#Person1#: I see. And when do you have the holiday?
#Person2#: It's on November the first, and the second, too.
#Person1#: Do you do it just for your family or do you go and visit friends or other relatives?
#Person2#: No, we only keep it within the family actually.
|
Jeff tells #Person1# The Day of the Dead is his favorite Mexican holiday on which they remember their family members who are already dead.
|
train_2111
|
#Person1#: Well, that's great that you have happy experiences of teaching in Indonesia and following up on what you just mentioned. What would you recommend for students who do not live in an English speaking country? I don't know about perfecting but they want at least to be able to communicate decently. How can they go about this?
#Person2#: Yeah, it is really hard that is the real struggle because right now I do live in Holland. But I really don't socialize much with Dutch People and my boyfriend's English is so good that we just basically speak English all the time. So I have to make a real effort to practice. There isn't as much listening exposure as I want, all I have to do is turn on the TV.
#Person1#: And reading also right?
#Person2#: Yeah, reading. There was plenty I can get to read and listen to. God for a speaking there really is no substitute for trying to speak and use the language in a relaxed atmosphere. o I think that is really the challenge for People who live in a country where their target language isn't spoken and for that. Gosh, what would I do. If I didn't have People here, probably try to find a club in Sweden. They have a really cool system called study circles where it's not it's like a course but really you just have a course leader who is there sort of. As a coaching guide and to help out and you don't get grades and you go just because you want to learn.
|
#Person1# asks #Person2# how to learn English for those who don't live in an English speaking country. #Person2# thinks it's really hard and #Person2# tries to learn Dutch by turning on the TV and reading. #Person2# thinks there's no substitute for trying to speak and use the language in a relaxed atmosphere.
|
train_2112
|
#Person1#: Friday, finally. Honey, let's do something fun this weekend.
#Person2#: I don't know. What do you have in mind?
#Person1#: We can go to the lake and have a swim.
#Person2#: I think it's going to be hot that day and I might get a sunburn. How about the library?
#Person1#: The library is boring. Then how about going mountain biking?
#Person2#: That sounds great. But I'd probably break my arm or something like I did last time.
#Person1#: You won't this time. Come on.
#Person2#: Well.
#Person1#: OK, forget it. How about fishing? Remember the last time we went, I caught like 10 fish.
#Person2#: Yeah, I remember and the only thing I caught was an old boot. Just forget it.
#Person1#: OK, what do you suggest?
#Person2#: We could stay home and pop some popcorn and play board games.
#Person1#: Listen, let's try something fun this time. You won't break your arm or get a sunburn. It'll be really pleasant. Just give it a try. Come on. let's do it. Come on.
|
#Person1# suggests swimming, or going mountain biking, or going fishing this weekend. But #Person2# refuses and suggests staying home and playing board games. #Person1# wants to try something fun.
|
train_2113
|
#Person1#: Are you going out Ann? But supper will be ready in a minute.
#Person2#: I'm going to Mary's house for dinner this evening. I told you so this morning daddy.
#Person1#: Sorry, I forgot about it. So you were going to her birthday party?
#Person2#: Yes, and Jenny and Laura will be there, too. We were all good friends when we were at school you know?
#Person1#: Yes, and now all of you have graduated from University. Where does Mary work?
#Person2#: In the East Photo nearby as a photographer, you can go and have your picture taken there someday.
#Person1#: Ok, see you.
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Ann will go to Mary's house to attend her birthday party. Ann tells #Person1# Mary works as a photographer.
|
train_2114
|
#Person1#: What kind of cuisine do you have?
#Person2#: We have Sichuan food, Hangzhou food and Beijing Food. Which do you like best?
#Person1#: Hangzhou food.
#Person2#: OK. How about Dongpo meat?
#Person1#: All right. I'll take it.
#Person2#: Do you like to use chopsticks
#Person1#: Yes, I like using chopsticks.
#Person2#: Do you like some soup?
#Person1#: Yes, but I don't know what soup you have.
#Person2#: We have beef soup and tomato soup.
#Person1#: Good. I prefer beef soup.
#Person2#: According to usual practices, we serve dishes first and then soup. If you like we'll bring you some soup first.
#Person1#: Save it until you've served dishes.
#Person2#: All right. I'll be back right away.
|
#Person1# orders Hangzhou food, Dongpo meat, and beef soup. #Person1# likes using chopsticks and asks #Person2# to serve dishes first and then soup.
|
train_2115
|
#Person1#: We are looking for a bilingual secretary. Do you think you are proficient in both written and spoken English?
#Person2#: I think my English is fairly good. As you can see from my CV, I graduated from university with a B. A. degree in English. I studied the English language and English literature systematically.
#Person1#: How are your typing and shorthand skills?
#Person2#: I can type 80 words a minute, basically no mistake, and can take dictation in English at 120 words per minute.
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#Person2# thinks #Person2# is proficient in English and has competent typing and shorthand skills.
|
train_2116
|
#Person1#: I ' m glad you could find time to meet with me, Mr. Johnson. I can ' t think of a nicer environment for our meeting today, the ambiance here is lovely!
#Person2#: No problem, if possible I always combine business with pleasure. Now, let ' s hear more about these chocolates you ' re offering.
#Person1#: Well, as you know, I have recently become the sole distributor for Grangers Gourmet Bon-bons here in the United States. They ' re a new manufacturer and are looking to break into the luxury market. Naturally, your restaurant sprang into my mind immediately. I think your brand exemplifies many of the same traits as Grangers and serving these chocolates would really add to your reputation for providing elegant, luxurious, first class dining.
#Person2#: Mmmm, sounds interesting... gourmet chocolates, where are they produced? Belgium?
#Person1#: Actually, the factory is located in Scotland.
#Person2#: Really? I didn ' t think they were known for their luxury chocolate production
#Person1#: That ' s what makes this such a fantastic opportunity! The government is one hundred percent supportive of creating new export markets and has guaranteed a low tariff for all wholesale orders of over one thousand units. They ' Ve also reduced the red tape involved at customs as well. Here, I brought these especially for you, try one!
#Person2#: Oh, thanks. Mmm, hmm, creamy texture, very smooth...
#Person1#: Unique, aren ' t they? I bet you ' Ve never tasted anything like it! Quality is assured as I personally visit the factory to make sure no one ' s cutting corners with the ingredients. Only the creme make it through inspection.
#Person2#: Yes, very interesting flavors... Slightly spicy, very unique, that ' s for sure. Exactly what ARE the ingredients?
#Person1#: I have it on highest authority that this traditional secret recipe has been handed down in the Granger family for generations. I ' m sure you can keep a secret. Buttermilk, cacao beans, sugar and Haggis.
#Person2#: Haggis? What ' s Haggis?
#Person1#: It ' s a traditional Scottish delicacy, you take sheep ' s liver, heart and lung and stuff it inside of the sheep ' s stomach.
#Person2#: Ah, get back to you.
#Person1#: Mr. Johnson? Mr. Johnson?
|
#Person1# thinks Mr. Johnson's brand exemplifies similar traits as Grangers, and serving these chocolates would add to the reputation for providing first-class dining to his restaurant. #Person1# tells that the factory is located in Scotland and invites Mr. Johnson to taste the chocolate. Mr. Johnson is satisfied with its taste and asks #Person1# the ingredients. However, Mr. Johnson gets it back to #Person1# when hearing what the Haggis is.
|
train_2117
|
#Person1#: Hide me, Yi-jun! The kids all think I'm the real Easter bunny!
#Person2#: Aw, that's sweet! I knew your costume would be a success.
#Person1#: It's a success all right. The kids keep trying to catch me.
#Person2#: Yeah, I saw that. I thought you were playing a game with them.
#Person1#: Some game! You try being tackled by ten kids at once!
#Person2#: Um, Holly? Look behind you. They're coming this way.
|
#Person1# asks Yi-jin to hide #Person1# because ten kids are trying to catch #Person1#.
|
train_2118
|
#Person1#: Can I help you find something?
#Person2#: I would like to buy a new fridge.
#Person1#: Is there one in particular that you like?
#Person2#: I was looking at this Kenmore refrigerator.
#Person1#: Ah yes, that is a great refrigerator.
#Person2#: What's so great about it?
#Person1#: It's both affordable and it comes with all the appliances.
#Person2#: What appliances?
#Person1#: It comes with an ice maker, water dispenser, and there is a lot of room inside.
#Person2#: May I see the inside for myself?
#Person1#: Be my guest.
#Person2#: Wow! You're right! This refrigerator is great. I'll take it.
|
#Person2# is looking at Kenmore refrigerator, and #Person1# tells that it's affordable and has many appliances. #Person2# will take it.
|
train_2119
|
#Person1#: Dora, are you interested in going to the museum with me tomorrow? I read the newspaper this morning. I know there is an art exhibition in Taipei Modern Art Museum.
#Person2#: Sure. I am free tomorrow. It sounds interesting to me. Can we buy the ticket online?
#Person1#: I don't think so. I think we had better go there earlier, or we may have to spend a lot of time waiting.
#Person2#: I guess that is the thing we can do with we really want to visit the museum.
#Person1#: Look at the ticket booth in the center. There seems to be not as many people as we thought it would be.
#Person2#: Yeah. We are lucky. Let's go buy the tickets first. We can have breakfast later. I am so hungry.
#Person1#: Good idea.
#Person2#: ( After the breakfast ) Which floor is the art exhibition we are going to?
#Person1#: I have no idea. Let me take a closer look at my museum map
#Person2#: Sure, take your time. We have a whole day.
#Person1#: It's on the 2nd floor. We are going to see some beautiful paintings about the history of ancient Greece.
#Person2#: Look at the museum guide. It says there are also some sculptures and potteries in this area. Let's rent an audio guide.
|
#Person1# invites Dora to go to the museum. Dora agrees, and #Person1# thinks they had better go there earlier to buy the ticket. They decide to buy the ticket first before having breakfast. Then they look at the museum map and visit the museum.
|
train_2120
|
#Person1#: So, you friend's getting married on Saturday. What have you bought her as a wedding gift. I find is so hard to choose the right gift.
#Person2#: My friend and her fiance had a really good idea. They have cut out pictures from catalogues and pasted them in a notebook. The picture are of things they want. People sign their name by the item they will buy.
#Person1#: That's clever! Then everyone knows that they are buying something the couple really want and there's no chance of two people buying the same gift. What things were in the notebook?
#Person2#: Most of the things were household appliance. You know, everything from an iron through a vacuum cleaner to a cooker. I think it's an excellent way for everyone who knows the couple to help them set up home.
#Person1#: So, what did you get them?
#Person2#: I bought a sewing machine. I know that my friend likes making her own clothes, but her current sewing machine is quite old and has some problems.
#Person1#: What's wrong with it?
#Person2#: She says that after several years of use, it's not working properly. When she uses it, it makes a funny noise.
#Person1#: Household appliance don't seem to last for a long time nowadays.
#Person2#: I think it's because the manufactures are constantly bringing out new models. Because they know that we will buy the new models, the appliances don't need to last more than five or ten years at most.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s friend and her fiance thought of a good idea to prevent people from buying the same gift. #Person2# says that most of the things that the couple wants are household appliance and #Person2# bought a sewing machine for them.
|
train_2121
|
#Person1#: what's up?
#Person2#: not much. I'm just trying to hook up to the internet. I'm having a few problems though.
#Person1#: what's wrong?
#Person2#: I've got all the cords plugged in, but it appears that I'm offline.
#Person1#: Are you using dial-up or broadband?
#Person2#: actually, I've got a wireless connection.
#Person1#: In that case, you need to turn on your airport.
#Person2#: I hook up to the Internet every day. I can't believe I didn't do that.
#Person1#: do you like ever chat online?
#Person2#: No, but I'd like to. Do you have to pay to do instant messaging?
#Person1#: Oh, no. You can register for free. Just go to the yahoo website and it will tell you how to do it.
#Person2#: what do you do if people want to talk to you online but you don't want to talk to them?
#Person1#: well, you can always block them. When I don't feel like talking to certain people online, that's what I do.
#Person2#: what's your email address? I'll add you to my contacts list.
#Person1#: it's aubreyinchina@yahoo. com.
#Person2#: cool. We can meet up in a chat room sometime or just chat online using messenger. thanks for your help.
#Person1#: don't mention it.
|
#Person2# is trying to hook up to the internet, but it appears that #Person2# is offline. #Person1# advises #Person2# to turn on the airport. #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person2# can register instant messaging for free and block the people who #Person2# doesn't want to talk to.
|
train_2122
|
#Person1#: Would you like to go skiing with me? I heard the new ski area is great. They have safe tracks, especially for the beginners and provide free training. I think it suits you best.
#Person2#: Sounds not bad! You know, the only thing I worried about is the safety. I'm not an active exerciser and my muscle may be not strong enough for such an intense sport.
#Person1#: Well, Then you can go to the three-day-long training camp first. There're some professional teachers and they can guide you to do certain necessary exercise.
#Person2#: I will think about it.
#Person1#: Come on! It is really a fun game.
|
#Person1# invites #Person2# to go skiing at the new ski area, but #Person2# worries about safety. #Person1# suggests taking the three-day-long training camp.
|
train_2123
|
#Person1#: Do you like flowers?
#Person2#: Of course, I like.
#Person1#: What's your favorite flower?
#Person2#: Forsythia. It's also called winter jasmine which is the symbol of the spring's arrival.
#Person1#: Spring is a lively season.
#Person2#: Yes. How about you?
#Person1#: I admire plum blossoms very much. It seems that only it can blossom in the cold winter.
#Person2#: You have a perfect taste!
#Person1#: It is the symbol of laughing at hoar frost and fighting with snow. I admire the bravery of plum blossoms.
#Person2#: But it used to be ignored by many people.
#Person1#: The bright people will remember it forever.
#Person2#: Well, it's snowing. Let's enjoy the plum blossoms when snowing.
|
#Person2#'s favorite flower is Forsythia, the symbol of the spring's arrival, while #Person2# admires plum blossoms for its bravery.
|
train_2124
|
#Person1#: Did you have a part-time job when you were still in school?
#Person2#: No. I was way too busy studying all the time. How about you?
#Person1#: Yeah. I worked about 20 hours a week in a pizza restaurant.
#Person2#: What was that like?
#Person1#: It was always very busy there.
#Person2#: What did you do?
#Person1#: I stood behind the register and took pizza orders.
#Person2#: Did you get any perks on the job?
#Person1#: Yeah. I got to eat as much pizza as I could for free.
|
When in school, #Person2# didn't have a part-time job, while #Person1# worked in a pizza restaurant.
|
train_2125
|
#Person1#: Have you heard of the Love Bug?
#Person2#: Do you mean the'I love you'virus that attacks computers through e-mail?
#Person1#: Yes. It is one of the most harmful computer viruses in the world. People say it will break out again om Valentines'Day this year.
#Person2#: This is terrible. Why do hackers play such a dirty trick?
#Person1#: Hackers are smart, and they want people to know about it.
#Person2#: So they create viruses to tell people they are smart? That's really sick.
|
#Person1# and #Person2# are discussing the Love Bug, and #Person1# explains why hackers play the trick.
|
train_2126
|
#Person1#: Want to meet for lunch this Saturday?
#Person2#: Sorry, I can't. I am busy.
#Person1#: What are you doing?
#Person2#: I always do volunteer work on the first Saturday of every month.
#Person1#: What kind of volunteer work?
#Person2#: I help out at the children's hospital. I help plan activities.
#Person1#: Oh, yeah?
#Person2#: Yes, it's exciting. This month we are doing crossword puzzles.
|
#Person1# invites #Person2# to lunch, but #Person2# has to do volunteer work this Saturday.
|
train_2127
|
#Person1#: Do you surf online regularly, Joe?
#Person2#: Of course. I stay online for four hours at least every day.
#Person1#: Are you crazy? What are you doing four hours online?
#Person2#: Millions of things. I surf the Net, check my e-mail, and most importantly, I chat with my friends.
#Person1#: Online chat? Aren't you afraid of meeting bad people who pretend to be what they are not?
#Person2#: No, I am not. And I love to meet new people in the chat rooms who share a lot in common with me.
#Person1#: It sounds interesting.
|
Joe tells #Person1# Joe stays online for at least four hours every day, mostly chatting with friends.
|
train_2128
|
#Person1#: Lots of elderly people want peace and quiet in their old age, but young people want an unconstrained life.
#Person2#: It would be good for both if they lived separately. My parents want to live apart from us.
#Person1#: What if old people are in poor health and need to be looked after?
#Person2#: Young people ought to carry out their responsibilities. If it's needed, they would live with their parents.
#Person1#: When I'm old, I'll also be like that.
#Person2#: You need a child first, and that's your duty, too.
#Person1#: I know that's what I must do.
|
#Person2# thinks elderly people and young people live separately would be good, but young people need to live with their parents if needed.
|
train_2129
|
#Person1#: Do you want to hear a funny joke?
#Person2#: OK. Are you sure it's funny, though?
#Person1#: Well, you'll see.
#Person2#: OK.
#Person1#: OK, an Englishman, a Scotsman, and an Irishman were going on a trip across the desert, and they could only take one thing with them.
#Person2#: I see.
#Person1#: So they met up at the start of the journey and showed each other their equipment.
#Person2#: Oh, that's funny!
#Person1#: Hang on, I haven't finished yet.
#Person2#: Oh, sorry.
#Person1#: Well, as I was saying, they showed each other what they had decided to bring. The Englishman had brought some water. ' If we get thirsty, we'll have something to drink, ' he said. The Scotsman brought a map. ' If we get lost, we'll be able to find our way. ' The Irishman had brought a car door.
#Person2#: A car door? You mean just one car door?
#Person1#: Yep. A car door. ' Why the door? ' the others asked him. ' Well, ' he said, ' If it gets hot, we can open the window. ' Do you get it?
#Person2#: Well. . .
|
#Person1# tells #Person2# a joke that three men were crossing the desert and they could only take one thing. The Englishman brought some water; the Scotsman brought a map, and the Irishman brought a car door to open when hot.
|
train_2130
|
#Person1#: I think that show biz stars have a really easy life. They have lots of money, so they can buy almost anything they want. They're famous, so everyone loves them.
#Person2#: I think they must have horrible lives. All the paparazzi take photos of them wherever they go and whatever they do. They must get sick of it.
#Person1#: I bet they love it really. Sure, they complain about it, but that just gets them more publicity, doesn't it?
#Person2#: I think that few of the show biz stars want any publicity for themselves. They only want it for their films.
#Person1#: No way! They want publicity for themselves, so that they get invited to make more films, go to lots of cocktail parties, and even make albums! They have such an easy life. They don't even pay for Drin
#Person2#: Show biz stars have plenty of expenses. That's why they need so much money. They need million of dollars to buy big, seclude houses and wonderful dresses. I bet most show biz stars would prefer to Wea
#Person1#: I don't understand how you can have any sympathy for show biz stars. They're overpaid, over-ambitious, and over-adored.
#Person2#: I think you should give them some credit. They're very talented people and they deserve all the money they earn. They even donate money to charity to help people who are less fortunate than themselves
#Person1#: Come on! They only do that to get even more publicity for their films and themselves.
|
#Person1# thinks the show biz stars have a really easy life, while #Person2# thinks their lives must be horrible. #Person1# thinks those stars love their jobs and want publicity for themselves, but #Person2# thinks they only want publicity for their films. #Person2# sympathizes with them but #Person1# disagrees.
|
train_2131
|
#Person1#: Can you suggest a few exercise to help me get fit and stretch my muscles a little?
#Person2#: Sure. If you want to stretch your legs, a good exercise is to lift your knee in front of your body, like this. It's a very simple exercise, but very effective.
#Person1#: I need to excise my arms too. How can I do that?
#Person2#: One good way is to do push-ups. Another way is to use weights. Make sure you grip the weights firmly. You don't want to drop them on your feet!
#Person1#: When I do push-ups, should I bend my elbows so that my nose touches the ground?
#Person2#: You don't need to bend your elbows that much. Bend them so that your arms are at a 90 degree angle. The most important think is to remember to keep your body straight. Many people bend their bodies at the waist, which reduces the effectiveness of the exercise.
#Person1#: What's a good exercise for my chest muscles?
#Person2#: One that I recommend is that you lie on your back. You should have a weight in each hand and stretch your arms out either side of your body.
#Person1#: So I need plenty of space for this exercise.
#Person2#: Yes, you do. Lift the weight up, keeping your arms straight all the time.
#Person1#: Great. Thanks for you advice!
|
#Person2# recommends #Person1# to do push-ups and use weights to help #Person1# get fit and stretch #Person1#'s muscles. Then #Person2# tells that keeping #Person1#'s body straight is the most important and recommends #Person1# to lie on #Person1#'s back to exercise for chest muscles.
|
train_2132
|
#Person1#: You look upset. What's wrong?
#Person2#: Nothing. It's just one of those days. Everyone at the office is sick and I'm getting blamed for work not being done.
#Person1#: Maybe you need a vacation or something, or maybe a bonus.
#Person2#: I'm sick of doing other people's job and getting blamed for not doing it right.
#Person1#: Why don't you talk to your boss about it? If you talk to him, he will surely understand.
#Person2#: I wish he could understand. You know what, if this goes on, I think I will get stick like everybody else.
|
#Person2# looks upset because #Person2#'s getting blamed for work not being done, and #Person1# suggests talking to the boss.
|
train_2133
|
#Person1#: Excuse me, Ma'am. I would like to mail this package door to door via airmail to London. It is a very important package and has to be sent within 3 days.
#Person2#: No problem. But, the postage is much higher than the regular package.
#Person1#: That's fine with me. I am willing to pay for it as long as you can guarantee me the package can arrive in time.
#Person2#: OK. All the registered airmail packages can be received in 5 working days.
#Person1#: I see. How much do I need to pay in total for this package?
#Person2#: It's 500 dollars.
#Person1#: Can I have the receipt? Just in case I can trace it if something goes wrong.
#Person2#: Sure! Please just fill in your I. D. number and ways to contact you here.
#Person1#: Do I need to include my zip code in the address?
#Person2#: You had better include that because it is easier for the mailmen to find the correct mailing address.
#Person1#: Thank you very much. Here is 500 dollars.
#Person2#: Here is your receipt. Contact us if your friend still doesn't receive the package after 5 work days.
|
#Person1# wants to mail an important package door to door via airmail to London within three days. #Person2# charges #Person1# 500 dollars and #Person1# asks for the receipt to trace the package.
|
train_2134
|
#Person1#: Welcome to China, Mr. White.
#Person2#: How do you do, Ms. Chi?
#Person1#: Welcome to this corporation, Mr. White. Won't you please sit down?
#Person2#: Thank you.
#Person1#: Our representative in your country faxed a letter that you showed an interest in some of our products on display at the Oct. Exhibition there. Now we'd like to know if you have any specific requirements in mind.
#Person2#: Yes, we have. I'Ve brought with me a list of the quantity of your products we'd like to import for the second half of this year. Here is a copy of it.
#Person1#: Good. Well, Mr. White, most of the items listed are available this year. I hope we can come to an agreement and sign the contracts soon to enable timely delivery.
#Person2#: I hope so, too. Now I'd like some of your sales literature and a price list for all of your export articles.
#Person1#: Here are our catalog and price list. The catalog lists all the commodities we export, and the price list gives indicative prices for all our export articles.
#Person2#: Thank you, Ms. Chi. What are your normal export terms?
#Person1#: We normally export CFR.
#Person2#: What commission do you usually pay for your exports? As you know, we import on commission basis.
#Person1#: That can be discussed.
#Person2#: All right. When can we meet again for more specific details, Ms. Chi?
#Person1#: What about tomorrow morning at 9? I'll come over to your hotel.
#Person2#: I'll be expecting you, then.
|
Mr. White brought a list of the quantities of Ms. Chi's products that they'd like to import for the second half of this year. Then Ms. Chi gives him the catalog and price list and says they normally export CFR. They'll meet tomorrow morning for more specific details.
|
train_2135
|
#Person1#: Welcome, sir, what can I do for you?
#Person2#: I want to buy some records.
#Person1#: Whose record do you want?
#Person2#: Are there the records of Michael Jackson?
#Person1#: His records have been sold out. The new copies will be available next week.
#Person2#: Oh. it's too late. Maybe I should go to other video stores to have a look.
|
#Person2# wants to buy Michael Jackson's records, but #Person1#'s store has sold out.
|
train_2136
|
#Person1#: It doesn't look very nice outside today.
#Person2#: You're right. I think it's going to rain later.
#Person1#: In the middle of the summer, it shouldn't be raining.
#Person2#: That wouldn't seem right.
#Person1#: Considering that it's over ninety degrees outside, that would be weird.
#Person2#: Exactly, it wouldn't be nice if it started raining. It's too hot.
#Person1#: I know, you're absolutely right.
#Person2#: I wish it would cool off one day.
#Person1#: That's how I feel, I want winter to come soon.
#Person2#: I enjoy the winter, but it gets really cold sometimes.
#Person1#: I know what you mean, but I'd rather be cold than hot.
#Person2#: That's exactly how I feel.
|
#Person1# and #Person2# discuss whether it is going to rain later. They both wish the weather would cool off.
|
train_2137
|
#Person1#: Room service. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: I find the sheet in my room is so stained. Would you please help us change it for a clean one?
#Person1#: I am sorry. sir. Someone will there in a moment.
#Person2#: All right. Please be quick about it.
#Person1#: Yes, sir. I assure you it would never happen again.
|
#Person2# asks #Person1# to change the stained sheet for a clean one.
|
train_2138
|
#Person1#: Good morning, sir. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Good day. I'm looking for a one-bedroom apartment today.
#Person1#: Certainly. How much rent did you want to pay?
#Person2#: Well, I didn't want to pay more than $ 900 a month.
#Person1#: $ 900 a month? We don't often have apartment as inexpensive as that. We have one apartment for $ 985 a month today, on Eleventh Avenue. It's near the municipal buildings.
#Person2#: Is it furnished?
#Person1#: No, it's unfurnished. It has a kitchen, but there are not many cookers. There's a garden in the back, but the tenants can't use it. The landlord lives downstairs. Friends are forbidden in the apartment after midnight. No noise and no television after 11. . .
#Person2#: No, thank you! I want to take an apartment, not a prison.
#Person1#: Ok, we would do as your requirement. And we'll contact with you later!
|
#Person2# wants to rent a one-bedroom apartment for no more than $900 a month. #Person1# recommends one with many rules for the tenant. #Person2# thinks it's a prison and refuses it.
|
train_2139
|
#Person1#: What can I do to help you?
#Person2#: I have some extra help with my project. What would you prefer to help me with, typing or xeroxing?
#Person1#: I could do some typing for you.
#Person2#: That is very kind of you to offer to do that. Can you start with the pages on the table?
#Person1#: Sure I will get to do that right now.
#Person2#: I like your positive attitude. How many years have you been employed here?
#Person1#: I have worked here long time.
#Person2#: We have a really interesting project coming up. Would you want to join us on it?
#Person1#: I'm not sure. Let me think about it.
#Person2#: OK. I will mention how great you were about helping me today. I appreciate your help.
|
#Person1# helps #Person2# do some typing in #Person2#'s project. Then #Person2# invites #Person1# to join them on an interesting project, and #Person1# will think about it.
|
train_2140
|
#Person1#: It's a beautiful day here in New Zealand at the Men's Volleyball world championship. My name is Rick Fields and I'm joined by the man with the plan, Bob Copeland.
#Person2#: Thank you, Rick. We'Ve got a very exciting encounter ahead of us today as two powerhouse teams, Brazil and China, face off against each other and try to qualify for the next round. Without a doubt, both teams are in top shape and this will prove to be a competitive match.
#Person1#: The ref signals the start of the game and here we go. Ribero serves and China quickly receives the ball. Chen bumps it to the setter, and. . . a very nice set by Chen!
#Person2#: Xu spikes it! Wow, what a great hit! The Brazilian blockers anticipated the play and tried to block him but he managed to get the ball in! Great play.
#Person1#: It's China's service now. What a superb jump serve by Li, oh, and we have a let serve. The ball was coming in fast and almost made it over the net.
#Person2#: Brazil calls for a time out and we'll be right back, after a short commercial break.
|
Rick Fields and #Person2# are interpreting the Men's Volleyball world championship. #Person2# first introduces the teams in today's competitive match and they describe what the team member does at the game. They will be back after a break.
|
train_2141
|
#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!
|
Wang Peng calls Mr. Smith to thank him for the wonderful dinner yesterday and his help during Wang Peng's stay.
|
train_2142
|
#Person1#: Do you get up early every morning?
#Person2#: About 6 in the morning. I like to walk to the office.
#Person1#: Good habit. How long does it take?
#Person2#: About 20 minutes. Do you live alone?
#Person1#: No, my little sister lives with me.
#Person2#: How old is she?
#Person1#: About 12. She is a good girl.
#Person2#: I think so.
|
#Person2# gets up at 6 and takes a 20-minute walk to the office.
|
train_2143
|
#Person1#: Shall I phone and tell your secretary you're not coming today?
#Person2#: Yes, please, dear. Tell her I've got a cold and a headache, but I hope to be back in a day or two. You'd better say I'm staying in bed.
#Person1#: But you're not in bed! Do you want me to tell a lie?
#Person2#: Oh, it's only a very little one, dear. I'm not making a false excuse. I really have a bad headache.
#Person1#: Then put the cigarette out. It's very foolish of you to smoke when you've got a cold.
#Person2#: Very well, dear. You're quite right.
#Person1#: Look, here's some boiling water. Do as I tell you now. I've put something in the water that'll do you a lot of good. Put your nose over the water. That's right. Breathe in deeply. It'll do you a lot of good.
#Person2#: It smells nice.
|
#Person2# asks #Person1# to tell #Person2#'s secretary that #Person2# is not coming because of sickness. #Person1# advises #Person2# to put the cigarette out and put #Person2#'s nose over the water.
|
train_2144
|
#Person1#: You're not looking very cheerful. What's the matter with you?
#Person2#: Oh, nothing special. I'm just thinking a lot.
#Person1#: About the job?
#Person2#: About everything, about catching the same train every morning, sitting in the same office all day, watching the same television programs....
#Person1#: You need a holiday.
#Person2#: It wasn't always like this, you know.
#Person1#: How do you mean?
#Person2#: Well, our great great grandfathers had more fun, didn't they? I mean, they hunted for their food and grew their own vegetables and did things for themselves. We do the same sort of job for years and years. There's no variety in our lives.
#Person1#: You need a holiday. That's what's the matter with you.
|
#Person2# thinks there is no variety in their lives when compared with their grandfathers'. #Person1# advises #Person2# to have a holiday.
|
train_2145
|
#Person1#: They say you've got a job in the New York City.
#Person2#: Yeah, we say it the United Nations.
#Person1#: How fascinating! It can meet people from all over the world.
#Person2#: Yeah, but just one problem. I'll have to leave my friends behind.
|
#Person2# got a job in the U.S.. #Person1# thinks it's fascinating.
|
train_2146
|
#Person1#: Operator, can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes. I'd like to make a collect call. My number is 7683384.
#Person1#: And the number you're dialing?
#Person2#: That's 7638558. Oh, no, I'm sorry, I forgot it's just changed. It's now 7643388.
#Person1#: Please hold the line, caller.
|
#Person2# asks the operator to make a collect call.
|
train_2147
|
#Person1#: It's seven o'clock already, dear.
#Person2#: Yes, I know. I decided to work during the evening rush hour.
#Person1#: And so your dinner's cold. Why do you work so hard?
#Person2#: I just start, and then I can't stop.
#Person1#: You can stop any time. You don't need to keep on working at all.
#Person2#: And then what could I do?
#Person1#: We could move to Florida.
#Person2#: Oh, Florida. Is it any better than New York?
#Person1#: It's warm and sunny all year round. No more snow, no more ice.
#Person2#: And what about the children and the grandchildren?
#Person1#: They could come, and visit us every winter.
#Person2#: And what would we do every spring, summer, and fall?
#Person1#: A lot of our friends have moved to Florida. We know a lot of people there.
#Person2#: Well, I'll think about it.
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#Person1# tells #Person2# that #Person2# doesn't need to keep on working and they could move to Florida. #Person2# asks what about their children, grandchildren, and friends if they move.
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train_2148
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#Person1#: Don't be mad at me. I'm only five minutes late.
#Person2#: This is the last time I'm waiting for you. I mean it.
#Person1#: You know, I always have a good excuse. I promise you: you'll never have to wait for me again.
#Person2#: I hope so. Come on, let's go get our tickets now. Oh, by the way, you have got your wallet with you, don't you? I left mine at home.
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#Person1# 's late again, and then #Person2# finds #Person2# left wallet at home.
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train_2149
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#Person1#: What do you think of this dress? Do you think it suits me?
#Person2#: Sure. Why don't you try it on? The fitting room is over there.
#Person1#: It's just the right size-a perfect fit! Have you seen anything you like?
#Person2#: I'm thinking about buying this sweater. I know it's june now, but it will be perfect for autumn and winter.
#Person1#: It looks too big for you, but I like the color and the material is good quality. Is it on sale?
#Person2#: Yes, it's half price. It's supposed to be too large-that's the fashion.
#Person1#: I might get one too, but in a different colour. I prefer light blue to while.
#Person2#: There. It looks great, don't you think? I'm going to get these jeans as well. I need a new pair. I need a new pair. I 'm also going to buy this scarf ready for winter.
#Person1#:
#Person2#: Don't worry. I've got my credit card. You can pay me back later.
#Person1#: Thanks! Now I don't need to come back to the shop a second time.
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#Person1# and #Person2# are trying the clothes on. #Person1# thinks the sweater is too big for #Person2#. #Person2# thinks that's the fashion. They both buy the sweaters but in different colors, and #Person2# buy jeans and a scarf.
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train_2150
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#Person1#: It's my wife's birthday. I need to buy some flowers for her.
#Person2#: Most women love red roses for their birthday.
#Person1#: How much will the roses be?
#Person2#: You can get a dozen for only $20.
#Person1#: Now, that's a price that I like.
#Person2#: You're in luck today because the roses are on sale.
#Person1#: Okay, I'll take the roses.
#Person2#: Very good. Perhaps you'd like something else to go with the roses?
#Person1#: No, the roses are good enough.
#Person2#: Women love roses, so your wife will be very happy.
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#Person1# buys a dozen roses from #Person2# as his wife's birthday gift, and it costs him only $20.
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train_2151
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#Person1#: Do you believe in god?
#Person2#: Not at all. I'm an agnostic. Do you?
#Person1#: I'm not sure. Why don't you believe there is a god?
#Person2#: I think everything has a scientific explanation rather than a theological one.
#Person1#: I basically believe in science over theology. I mean, I believe in evolution for example. However, there are many things that science hasn't explained yet.
#Person2#: I'm sure that science will explain everything eventually. I think that the strangest thing about religion is that so many religions people act in ways that their religion claims are wrong.
#Person1#: For example?
#Person2#: Religions preach tolerance, but many wars are caused by intolerant religious fanatics.
#Person1#: Yes. Such people don't appear to be acting in accordance with their religious beliefs.
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#Person2# doesn't believe in god because #Person2# thinks everything has a scientific explanation. #Person1# and #Person2# agree that some people don't act following their religious beliefs.
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train_2152
|
#Person1#: What do you think are the main causes of war today?
#Person2#: I'd say the main reason is poverty. Countries and their people get frustrated because they have so little. If their neighbors have some resources, they try to steal them by military force.
#Person1#: It seems that a lot of wars nowadays are really civil wars. People from different ethnic groups in the same country sometimes fight for power in that country.
#Person2#: Several of those civil wars have been going on for years and years. It seems they will never end.
#Person1#: How do you think they could be ended?
#Person2#: I don't think that there is any easy way. The united nations could send peacekeepers into the country. At least then the warring parties could be forced to negotiate. The thing is to find the real problem form the war and solve that.
#Person1#: So, if the cause is poverty, there should be a program to make the country richer. If the problem is resources, share them.
#Person2#: It sounds easy when you say it like that. In reality, it's harder to make peace between countries.
#Person1#: Yes. It is. One way to stop countries fighting is to cut off their financial support. Wars are very expensive.
#Person2#: The problem is that many poor people might suffer.
|
#Person2# thinks poverty causes war today and #Person1# mentions most of the wars are civil wars. #Person2# thinks it's hard to end the war. #Person1# believes that sharing the resources and cutting off financial support are good ways.
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train_2153
|
#Person1#: Is there a lot of crime in your city?
#Person2#: There's some, but I don't think it's a big problem. A lot of it is petty crime, burglary and car theft. There's very little major crime.
#Person1#: It's the same in my city. We also have a lot of drug addicts. A lot of the crime is committed by drug addicts who need money for drugs.
#Person2#: That happens in many places. In my city, there is a very good drug rehabilitation program. The police and courts are also tough on people who commit crimes, but I don't know if that's the reason for our relatively low crime rate.
#Person1#: Some people believe that a tough approach is better. Other prefer a more lenient approach.
#Person2#: I think that the best way to reduce crime is to spread wealth more evenly. If most people have similar amounts of money, they will not think of stealing from others.
#Person1#: That's possible, but I'm not sure it would really happen like that.
|
#Person2# and #Person1# talk about the crime in their cities. #Person1#'s city has serious drug problems but #Person2#'s doesn't. #Person2# thinks that spreading wealth evenly can reduce crime.
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train_2154
|
#Person1#: What are the seasons like in your city?
#Person2#: Summers are hot and usually lasts a long time. Winters are short, but cold, wet, and windy. I love the summers in my city, but I hate the wintertime.
#Person1#: Does it ever rain in summer?
#Person2#: We usually get a big thunderstorm every two weeks, but apart from that, summers are dry. Thunderstorms make the air fresh again, so most people don't mind then.
#Person1#: What are spring and autumn like?
#Person2#: I like spring because flowers bloom and trees grow leaves again. In spring, the weather is very changeable-sometimes cold, sometimes warm. It's usually windy with some rain. Autumn is usually sunny and dry, but it's gradually gets colder as winter arrives. What are the seasons like in you city?
#Person1#: Well, I live in the southern hemisphere, so our summertime is your wintertime, and vice versa. We get some rain in every season, but most is in winter. In winter, it sometimes gets cold, but our winters are usually quite mild. Summers are warm, but not hot. Spring and autumn are both very short-sometimes just a few weeks each. The weather is very changeable then-just like spring in your city.
#Person2#: Do you usually go on a summer holiday?
#Person1#: No, I don't. I go on a winter holiday instead. I go somewhere warm.
#Person2#: I usually go on holiday during the spring or the autumn. I try to go somewhere where the weather is more reliable than in my city.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2#'s city has a long summer with a big thunderstorm every two weeks and a short but cold winter. The weather is very changeable in spring in #Person2#'s city. #Person1# lives in the southern hemisphere, so the climate is opposite to #Person2#.
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train_2155
|
#Person1#: Hi Peter, what are you doing?
#Person2#: I am reading some papers about stock.
#Person1#: Ah, Great! I happen to want to ask you something about it!
#Person2#: Yes, sure. What it is?
#Person1#: When it comes to select a fund, many people will always read 'Past performance is not an indication of future results', do you believe that?
#Person2#: Maybe it is right since everything is possible. You know the market changes quickly these days.
#Person1#: Do you really think so? But I still have doubted those funds with bad stock performance. For me, a stock record is the very important criteria to decide which to buy. I really want to decrease the risk reach the minimum and achieve the maximum returns.
#Person2#: If you refuse to take risk, you can't have better returns.
#Person1#: Sure, maybe you are right. I will think about it. Thanks a lot!
#Person2#: You are most welcome.
|
#Person1# wants to reach the minimum risk and achieve maximum returns, but Peter says if #Person1# refuses to take risk, #Person1# can't have better returns.
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train_2156
|
#Person1#: Pam, where is the closest ATM?
#Person2#: Do you see that yellow building over there?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: It's right next to it on the right.
#Person1#: Do you know if there's a convenience store around here?
#Person2#: I don't think there's one around here, the closest one is on third street. But that's probably close now.
#Person1#: I really need to get some things before I leave.
#Person2#: Well. You could go down to twenty second street. There are lots of stores down there that are open 24 hours a day.
#Person1#: Can I take the subway to get there?
#Person2#: Yes, but that will probably take about half an hour. You should just take a cab.
#Person1#: Won't that be expensive?
#Person2#: No, from here, I think it's only about $5.
|
Pam tells #Person1# locations of the closest ATM and convenience stores. Then Pam recommends #Person1# to take a cab to the twenty-second street.
|
train_2157
|
#Person1#: They told me Steven is a very special boy, and he seldom plays with the children. What do you think of him?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. He is a very special boy in many ways. He doesn't have the normal abilities for the boys of his age. It's very difficult for him to read and write in my class. For example, many 8 year-old boys can do much more than he can. But of course, he has a special gift.
#Person1#: In drawing?
#Person2#: Yes. He's always been good at it. Steven can look at any building for about 5 minutes and then draw it perfectly.
#Person1#: Tell us something about some of the drawings he's done.
#Person2#: Well, his drawings are most about famous buildings, like the Gulf Palace in Venice and Kremlin in Moscow. They're wonderfully drawn. Famous artists looked at his drawings and said that Steven's an excellent painter.
#Person1#: And he just looks at these buildings for a few minutes and draws them?
#Person2#: That's right. It's very strange, isn't it? He has such a special gift in one thing, but finds other things difficult.
|
#Person2# tells #Person1# Steven doesn't have the normal abilities for the boys of his age, but he has a gift for drawing. Steven can draw the buildings perfectly just looking at them for a few minutes.
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train_2158
|
#Person1#: Where are you from, Corey?
#Person2#: I'm from Canada. I'v just moved here.
#Person1#: Canada! Are you good at winter sports then?
#Person2#: Yeah! I love winter sports very much, such as skiing and snowboarding. I also like ice diving.
#Person1#: Wow, that sounds quite exciting!
#Person2#: Yeah, I've been doing that for 7 years since I was 9. What do you do in your free time?
#Person1#: Well, swimming used to be my favorite hobby. But now I spend most of my spare time in the acting club I joined last year, and I really love the theater. I really want to be an actress one day. Have you got any other hobbies?
#Person2#: Uhm, I guess I enjoy playing online computer games. I feel quite relaxed when playing the games, and it helps me make new friends. How about you? Do you spend much time online?
#Person1#: Well, I'm not interested in computer games. I think it makes no sense spending time playing something with strangers. I prefer chatting face to face with my friends.
#Person2#: I like chatting with friends too.
#Person1#: Oh, it's time for class. Our English teacher is coming. After class I'll introduce you to some of my friends.
|
Corey tells #Person1# he loves winter sports and he has been doing ice diving for 7 years. #Person2# used to like swimming but now loves the theater. They both like chatting with friends.
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