#Person1#: We have a holiday next week, don't we?
#Person2#: Yes, on Monday.
#Person1#: What're you going to do?
#Person2#: I'm probably going to spend the day looking at cars.
#Person1#: At cars! You aren't thinking about buying a car, are you?
#Person2#: Yes, I am. I'd like to be able to get around a little more.
#Person1#: But it will be expensive to have a car in the city, won't it?
#Person2#: Oh, I don't know. Of course, gasoline costs a lot these days.
#Person1#: But what about parking? You can't park on the street, can you?
#Person2#: A lot of people do. I'll try it for a while anyway, but I certainly don't want to pay a lot of parking tickets.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# will have a holiday next week. #Person2# will spend the day looking at cars because #Person2#'s thinking about buying a car. #Person1# thinks it is expensive.


#Person1#: Can I help you, sir?
#Person2#: I want to have a haircut.
#Person1#: Please take a seat. Do you need a shampoo?
#Person2#: How much is a regular haircut without shampoo?
#Person1#: $ 10.
#Person2#: And how much for haircut with shampoo?
#Person1#: The total charge is $ 15.
#Person2#: Since it is, I need a haircut with shampoo.
#Person1#: Well, what shampoo do you prefer?
#Person2#: SEEK, please.
#Person1#: ( 5 minutes later ) What sort of hairstyles do you like?
#Person2#: What hairstyle do you feel will look best on me?
#Person1#: I think a crew cut is the most suitable for you.
#Person2#: I have the same idea as you.

Summary: #Person1# says the total charge of a haircut with shampoo is $15 and advises a crew cut for #Person2#.


#Person1#: I just moved into my apartment, and the plumbing is not working.
#Person2#: Can you describe the plumbing problems you are having?
#Person1#: The bathtub barely drains at all.
#Person2#: Okay, the bathroom plumbing needs looking at. What about the kitchen plumbing?
#Person1#: Neither the kitchen nor the bathroom plumbing is working well.
#Person2#: Has this problem been going on for a long time?
#Person1#: It just started happening last night.
#Person2#: I will be coming over to look at it this afternoon. Will you be there?
#Person1#: I will not be home.
#Person2#: I can always use my key to get in, but I would prefer that you be there.

Summary: #Person1# turns to #Person2# for help as the plumbing in #Person1#'s apartment doesn't work. #Person2# will look at it this afternoon.


#Person1#: Where's Bill? The ambassador is already here. The meeting is set to start at 9 am.
#Person2#: He's late again. Traffic is probably holding him up. You know, he commutes from the suburbs. It's not easy commuting every day. We should cut him some slack.
#Person1#: Even though the trafic is bumper-to-bumper out there, I don't think it's heavy traffic that makes Bill late. He takes the train, remember?
#Person2#: Oh, that's right. Well, the train shouldn't be late. That means there is only one explanation. . . . Bill must have overslept.
#Person1#: Well, to be fare, since he's coming all the way from Lancaster, he's got to get up much earlier than the rest of us. He must get start on his commute about six thirty, no telling what time he actually gets up.
#Person2#: That's right, because he's got to get to the train station from his house, then take the blue line into the city, then switch trains to the red line. In all, the trip's got to take more than 2 hours.
#Person1#: Why doesn't he just drive to work?
#Person2#: It's too difficult to park your car in the city. Also, the traffic coming in from the suburbs is a nightmare.

Summary: Bill is late and an ambassador is waiting. #Person1# and #Person2# assumes Bill overslept because he lives far away and commutes every day by train.


#Person1#: which countries have you been to?
#Person2#: I'Ve been to most of the countries in Europe, several countries in asia, china, Japan, korea, and Thailand, and to the united states and Canada.
#Person1#: I thought you had been to Australia too.
#Person2#: no, but I'm planning on visiting Australia and New Zealand soon. I'Ve heard that they are beautiful countries. Which is the most beautiful country you'Ve been to?
#Person1#: I think I'd say Norway. It has many pictures as fjords, waterfalls, and mountains.
#Person2#: isn't it really cold there?
#Person1#: well, the north of Norway is almost always cold, but further south it can be fairly warm in summer. It's a wet country, so there's snow almost everywhere in winter.
#Person2#: I'Ve been to other Scandinavian countries, but not to Norway. Perhaps I should go and do some winter sports there.

Summary: #Person2# has been to many countries and plans to visit Australia and New Zealand. #Person1# thinks Norway's beautiful, and #Person2# may go and do some winter sports there.


#Person1#: What's your favorite season?
#Person2#: I like the freedom of summer with no school.
#Person1#: Yeah, and all those fun summer sports and activities.
#Person2#: And I like the festivities of winter with Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year.
#Person1#: Oh, me too! All the family getting together. . .
#Person2#: And I really like the smells and colors of spring.
#Person1#: I like the feeling then that school is almost over!
#Person2#: But I must say, if it were only for the weather, I like autumn most!

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# loves the freedom of summer, the festivities of winter, and the smells and colors of spring, but #Person2# loves autumn most for the weather.


#Person1#: Good afternoon! Dr. Perkins' office.
#Person2#: Good afternoon. I'd like to speak to the doctor. Is he in?
#Person1#: Who is that calling, please?
#Person2#: My name is Li Hong. I'm from China.
#Person1#: I'm sorry. Dr. Perkins is now at an important meeting and can't answer your call.
#Person2#: I'm an exchange scholar. Dr. Perkins asked me to give a lecture. There are some details I want to discuss with him.
#Person1#: I see, but you must speak to himself about that. Oh, well, if you leave your number, I'll tell him to ring you as soon as he is available.
#Person2#: Thanks. My number is 7838298.

Summary: Li Hong phones to discuss the details of a lecture with Dr. Perkins. #Person1# says Perkins isn't available and will let him call Li back.


#Person1#: I'm sure that the boy will become nobody when he grows up.
#Person2#: Be careful of what you say, or you'll have to eat humble pie.
#Person1#: Eat humble pie? Impossible, I'Ve never been wrong in judging boys like him.

Summary: #Person2# asks #Person1# to be careful of judging.


#Person1#: Hello, this is Room 205. What time is the dinner, please?
#Person2#: The main restaurant opens at 7 in the evening and closes at 10. Our coffee shop is open 24 hours a day.
#Person1#: And what time is it now, please?
#Person2#: It's 6 p.m., sir.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# inquires #Person2# about the opening time of the restaurant and the current time.


#Person1#: Morning, Mrs. Jones.
#Person2#: Morning, what's wrong?
#Person1#: Well, I've made a list here of all the things that are already in my job description and I'm very happy with that. What I'm not really comfortable with are all the extra duties that I'm having to take on at the moment.
#Person2#: Do you need someone to help you?
#Person1#: To be honest, I'm OK about doing the extra work. I just feel that some sort of a salary increase would be appropriate.
#Person2#: I can't make a decision right now, but I'll look at the details and tell you the result next week. Alright?
#Person1#: OK.

Summary: #Person1# asks Jones for a salary increase for #Person1#'s extra duties. Jones will get back to #Person1# after looking at the details.


#Person1#: Hi, Mark, how are you?
#Person2#: Actually, I am really fed up, Linda. It's Jane.
#Person1#: Jane? Who's Jane?
#Person2#: Oh, nobody really. Just a most stunningly attractive girl in my year school.
#Person1#: Oh, is that all? So what's the problem?
#Person2#: Well, the thing is I just don't know how to make her notice me. Or ....
#Person1#: Wait a minute. I've got a brilliant idea. Why don't you try talking to her?
#Person2#: But I wouldn't know what to say. I ....
#Person1#: Look. She is in your chemistry class, isn't she? You are good at chemistry. You could offer to help her with her chemistry homework. How about that?
#Person2#: Not bad. Just one problem.
#Person1#: What?
#Person2#: She is better than me at chemistry.
#Person1#: Ok, then. Well, there is that party at John's at Friday night. You could invite her.
#Person2#: Just another small problem. John's her boyfriend.

Summary: Mark doesn't know how to make Jane notice him. Linda suggests him help her with chemistry and invites her to the party but Mark says she's better at chemistry and the party owner is Jane's boyfriend.


#Person1#: Damn it , I'm running out of money again, I really need to balance my budget and handle my money better.
#Person2#: You did spend too much, and most of the expense was kind of unnecessary.
#Person1#: But I make it.
#Person2#: No , you don't have to spend every penny you make , you could save some every month, like a lot of other people do.
#Person1#: I work hard so I deserve to enjoy, but that costs money.
#Person2#: You should save in case of an emergency, you need to have more self-control, what things did you spend money on?
#Person1#: The problem is that I have no idea. I didn't pay attention.
#Person2#: Let's bygones be bygones, start saving right now.

Summary: #Person1# is running out of money again because #Person1# thinks #Person1# works hard so #Person1# deserves to enjoy. #Person2# suggests #Person1# start saving right now.


#Person1#: I've never met anyone like Clyde before.
#Person2#: He's such a buppie-a black yuppie. Black people come in all shapes and sizes. Just check out the party.
#Person1#: Wow! There are so many different people here. I expected mostly athletes and rappers.
#Person2#: You'll find some of those here, too. But not if you don't shake it up! There's an African saying, 'If you can talk, you can sing! If you can walk, you can dance! '
#Person1#: Then I'll just shut up and sit down!

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# black people are born to be good at talking and dancing.


#Person1#: How are you feeling, John?
#Person2#: Oh, not too bad, but I've got to stay in bed.
#Person1#: Do more exercises after you are healthy.
#Person2#: Ok, I will. You have said that many times.
#Person1#: Are you hungry? Do you want me to buy something for you to eat?
#Person2#: No, there's no need. Thank you all the same.

Summary: John has to stay in bed. #Person1# suggests exercising more, which has been said many times.


#Person1#: Bob, I'm sure you know about second-hand smoke.
#Person2#: Of course, I do.
#Person1#: But have you heard about third-hand smoke?
#Person2#: Third-hand smoke? I'm afraid not. What is that then?
#Person1#: Well, it is here in today's paper. Parents may think they are protecting children from second-hand smoke when they smoke outside their home or only when the children are not there. But now researchers are warning about what they call third-hand smoke. When you smoke dangerous matter from cigarettes get into your hair and clothing. As babies are the weakest, when you come to a baby, you pass it to the baby and increase the chances of disease in the baby.
#Person2#: Is that so? In that case I have to say that I should never get close to a baby.
#Person1#: That's right. Actually all smoking parents should do the same or better give it up completely.

Summary: #Person1# tells Bob about the danger of third-hand smoke and concludes smoking parents should never get close to a baby or better give up smoking.


#Person1#: Hi, still in the office? It's already 7.
#Person2#: I would like to go but I have to finish a very important presentation. Our boss needs it for tomorrow's morning meeting and I was given the complete information only late this afternoon.
#Person1#: Sounds like our boss. Typically him always late with important information. Anything I can help?
#Person2#: Oh, that will be great. Thank you so much. Please help me to double-check the name list. I have to make sure they are all correct.
#Person1#: Ok, shall I make a coffee first?
#Person2#: Not for me. It is already late. I can not fall asleep after drinking coffee this late.

Summary: #Person2#'s working overtime to finish a presentation. #Person1# offers to double-check the name list.


#Person1#: Welcome to Al's Bakery. What can I get you?
#Person2#: Hi! Let me get a dozen croissants, four blueberry muffins and a loaf of sourdough bread.
#Person1#: Sure. Would you like to have the loaf sliced?
#Person2#: No, that's OK. Do you have any whole wheat bread?
#Person1#: We are out at the moment. May I suggest some rye bread?
#Person2#: Sure that sounds good. Do you have any cakes?
#Person1#: We have various birthday cakes and also ice cream cakes.
#Person2#: I'll just take a cheesecake.
#Person1#: Will that be all?
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: Your total is forty three dollars and twenty cents.

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# buy 12 croissants, 4 blueberry muffins, a sourdough, and cheesecake. They cost #Person2# $43.20.


#Person1#: Welcome to our show! Today, I am going to show you how to make the perfect mouthwatering sandwich! Are you ready? Let's get started!
#Person2#: Let's start with the basics, bread. Bread is an important ingredient here. You need to remember one thing - choose the bread according to the following criteria, freshness, crumb and color. If you want a closed sandwich I recommend you first toast your bread in a toaster or oven, or grill it slightly until it gets a light brown color.
#Person1#: Now that our bread is ready, let's talk about the ingredients! Of course, each person's palate is different, but I'm going to give you a few tips that you'll be able to use when turning any sandwich into the perfect sandwich. I would strongly recommend you put fresh vegetables in your sandwich.
#Person2#: Do not undervalue them as they play a big role in forming the taste and will make the sandwich more refreshing and light. The best choices here are evident, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, sweet pepper or chilli, lettuce and, of course, herbs, you can't go wrong with them. As for aubergines, mushrooms and asparagus, I would recommend you first grill them slightly with a little touch of olive oil.
#Person1#: Last but not least, we have a wide variety of condiments that we can add to our perfect sandwich. We can be subtle and just add a touch of salt and pepper, or we can combine mustard sauce, mayonnaise, ketchup or even caviar to achieve a stronger flavor! It's always a good idea to cut your sandwich in triangles or manageable pieces to avoid all your ingredients falling out and staining your shirt!
#Person2#: That's all the time we have for today, but join us next time where we'll be going over how to make the perfect lasagna! Till next time!

Summary: #Person2# and #Person1# show the audience how to make a sandwich. They give some tips such as putting fresh vegetables and grill aubergines, mushrooms, and asparagus slightly with a little touch of olive oil. They will teach how to make lasagna next time.


#Person1#: This historian is famous in the field of Tang Dynasty.
#Person2#: So he always sits above the salt when there is a seminar about it.
#Person1#: Right, to be famous to be respectable in some way.
#Person2#: You got it.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about a famous historian.


#Person1#: Good morning, Angela, how have you been lately?
#Person2#: Morning, Michael. I'Ve been very busy lately. One of our other vendors is going out of business and I'Ve been searching for a suitable replacement.
#Person1#: Well, rest assured that you can count on us to be here for the long run, please sit down. Coffee?
#Person2#: No, thanks. I'Ve been trying to cut down on the caffeine.
#Person1#: Haha, I could never do that. I'd be a zombie if I didn't have my morning coffee fix. Let's get down to business then.
#Person2#: Yes. I'Ve come to talk with you about ordering the eight megapixel cameras for our new methone. The demand for phone cameras is growing, and Pear has been falling behind in the market.
#Person1#: That's great! I'm glad to hear that Pear has finally jumped on the bandwagon. Right now our contract is for the five megapixel cameras. Is Pear still interested in having those?
#Person2#: No, we're changing all the cameras to eight megapixels. We were hoping that by making your company our sole supplier for cameras we could negotiate a better deal.
#Person1#: Surely. Let's get started by drafting a new contract.

Summary: Angela has been busy because she has been searching for a replacement for their vendors. She's talking with #Person1# about ordering the eight megapixel cameras and hopes #Person1#'s company to be their sole supplier for cameras.


#Person1#: Oh, the ink is spilled on the desk.
#Person2#: Did it spill on your clothes?
#Person1#: No, but the table cloth was dirty.
#Person2#: That's OK.
#Person1#: I'm afraid it's too hard to wash off the stain.
#Person2#: It's no big deal.
#Person1#: I really feel great shame. Let me buy a new one for you.
#Person2#: Don't be silly, forget about it.

Summary: #Person1# spilled the ink on the desk accidentally and feels sorry about it, but #Person2# says it's ok.


#Person1#: Besides salary what kind of allowance can I expect?
#Person2#: We have a kind of floating bonus on a yearly basis.
#Person1#: Can you elaborate it more concretely?
#Person2#: Yes. Floating bonus is the kind of bonus that is indeterminate in amount, such as quarterly bonus, bonus at the end of the year.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# to elaborate on the floating bonus.


#Person1#: Hey, there's Leo. I wonder why he's walking arm in arm with that young woman.
#Person2#: It's as plain as the nose on your face. They're dating each other.
#Person1#: You're pulling my leg! She must be thirty years younger than Leo. Talk about robbing the cradle!
#Person2#: Well, you can bet this relationship's going to be a flash in the pan.
#Person1#: It must have been love at first sight because I know he didn't have a girlfriend last week.
#Person2#: I think you are absolutely right. Actually, my father proposed to my mother after knowing her only two weeks. They got married a month later.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are talking about Leo and the young woman walking with him. They think Leo is dating.


#Person1#: Hello, madam. How do you like your staying here?
#Person2#: Quite good. Excuse me, are there any places of interest?
#Person1#: Yes, there are so many near our hoteI.Three blocks away from here, there is temple. It's famous for its building and paintings.lt ' s worth visiting.
#Person2#: Thank you. I think today we will go there.

Summary: #Person2# asks #Person1# about local places of interest. #Person1# recommends a temple.


#Person1#: Should I tell EDD that I have found a job?
#Person2#: Is this a temporary job or something more permanent?
#Person1#: What difference does it make?
#Person2#: When you get your next Continued Claim Form, you should just write down where you worked and note that you no longer need unemployment.
#Person1#: If I take a short job and then get laid off, will I be starting over trying to get unemployment?
#Person2#: Just because you work for a week doesn't mean that you will be losing your benefits.

Summary: #Person1# found a job. #Person2# says one will have the benefits even one just works for a week.


#Person1#: Something's wrong with my computer.
#Person2#: What's the problem?
#Person1#: My computer won't turn on.
#Person2#: Did you see if all the connections are right?
#Person1#: I'm not sure I understand what you mean.
#Person2#: The connections between your CPU and your outlet.
#Person1#: Is that what's stopping my computer from turning on?
#Person2#: If your plugs aren't connected all the way, the computer won't turn on.
#Person1#: I had no idea.
#Person2#: Why don't you try it and see what happens?
#Person1#: I'll try it right now.
#Person2#: Let me know if that doesn't work.

Summary: #Person1#'s computer won't turn on and #Person2# advises #Person1# to check the connections between the CPU and the outlet.


#Person1#: Good morning, miss.
#Person2#: Good morning, sir.
#Person1#: Could you tell me please where can I find a currents exchange?
#Person2#: Right here, how can i help you today, sir?
#Person1#: I'd like to exchange 5000 Singapore dollars into the US dollars please.
#Person2#: Do you have an account this bank, sir?
#Person1#: Yes, here is my account number.
#Person2#: May i please see ID?
#Person1#: Sure, here is my passport, by the way what is the rate today?
#Person2#: Today's rate is 2. 57 Singapore dollars for 1 US dollar, here is your money, sir. Please count it and sign your name here.
#Person1#: Yes, it is the credit demand. Where can I cash travellers'cheques?
#Person2#: You can cash them here, how much do you want to cash?
#Person1#: 900 dollars.
#Person2#: How would you like it?
#Person1#: I need 8 hundreds and the rest in 10s please?
#Person2#: Ok, here you are.
#Person1#: Thank you, have a nice day.
#Person2#: Thank you, have a good day.

Summary: After #Person1# shows his account number and passport, #Person2# helps #Person1# exchange 5000 Singapore dollars into US dollars.


#Person1#: Who is your favorite NBA star?
#Person2#: Kobe Bryant, of course.
#Person1#: Kobe? I know him, the key guy of the Lakers, a heck of a NBA player. He is on fire when he breaks through enemy defense.
#Person2#: He is competent both in driving the lane and shooting jumpers, but what really makes him formidable is his ability to switch up and dribble with his left hand.
#Person1#: Maybe he is not good at rebounding?
#Person2#: Indeed, no man can be perfect. He is just so-so in crashing the boards. Usually he plays shooting guard. Rebounding might not be his strong suit.
#Person1#: Kobe came to Beijing during this summer's Olympics. Did you go to the match between China and USA?
#Person2#: Who wouldn't! My friend Lee went so far as to get an autograph from him.
#Person1#: Well then, what are your spoils?
#Person2#: Well, nothing more than a jumble of photographs.

Summary: #Person2#'s favorite NBA star is Kobe Bryant. #Person2# tells #Person1# Kobe is competent both in driving the lane and shooting jumpers, but not good at rebounding.


#Person1#: When did you leave for Beijing last Sunday?
#Person2#: Oh, I planned to take the 8:50 train. But the manager phoned me at about 8:15 and asked me to deal with something urgent. When I finished it, it was already 9:50.
#Person1#: So you had to take the 10:30 train. Right?
#Person2#: Yes. But when I hurried to the railway station, I was told the train would be delayed for fifteen minutes.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# hurried to catch the train to Beijing, only to find the train was delayed.


#Person1#: Can I have a cup of coffee please?
#Person2#: Sure. What size would you like? Here are cup sizes.
#Person1#: Uhm, I want to take a large one with sugar, please.
#Person2#: Alright. Anything else? How about soft drinks?
#Person1#: No. Erm, those cream cakes look really good. I'll take one.
#Person2#: OK. That's $2.18 for the coffee and $1.50 for the cake.
#Person1#: Here's $5. Keep the change.
#Person2#: Thanks.

Summary: #Person1# buys a large cup of coffee with sugar and a piece of cream cake with #Person2#'s assistance.


#Person1#: What did you learn at the workshop you went to yesterday? Do you think it was worth the investment to go?
#Person2#: Yeah, I really got a lot of the session. The workshop topic was resolving personal problems. It was led by a professional human resources director. The teacher had a lot of experience, and I think we were all given a really good base to start with.
#Person1#: The workshop was only one afternoon long, do you really think you can learn that much in only a couple of hours?
#Person2#: It depends on the topic, the teacher, and the way the course is set up. Yesterday, even though we only had a short time to discuss the issues, the workshop got us all thinking. We learned some very basic, but very useful methods of dealing with personnel issues.
#Person1#: Sounds like you really learned a lot.
#Person2#: I did. . . I just hope I can implement all these great ideas that we shared.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# learned a lot at the workshop but #Person1# doubts it. #Person2# assures #Person1# that even though they had a short time, they started to think and learned useful methods.


#Person1#: Want to send out for some Chinese?
#Person2#: Some what?
#Person1#: Some Chinese food. I'm hungry, and there's a take-out restaurant near here. We can have them deliver and then watch the news on TV while we eat.
#Person2#: No, I'd rather go out. The Chinese food here is rather different from what I had at home. Maybe we can try some other food today. . . What about that all-you-can-eat place we passed the other day, the one over in the shopping center?
#Person1#: Okay. I could go for that. It's called Al's Steakhouse. They also have great fried fish, and I love their salad bar. You can go back to refill 1 your plate as often as you like.
#Person2#: Is that the place that serves such large portions of meat?
#Person1#: Yes, their steaks are enormous. Sometimes I can't finish what I'Ve ordered.
#Person2#: What if that happens to me? I hate to let food go to waste.
#Person1#: Don't worry. We'll just get a doggie bag.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are discussing what to eat and they decide to have something in Al's Steakhouse, an all-you-can-eat place that serves such large portions of meat.


#Person1#: Jack, I was just wondering if you'd like to go out this Friday.
#Person2#: Oh, Rose. I haven't seen you since we last met at our classmates party. What are you going to do?
#Person1#: Well, I was thinking if we could go to a movie after a western dinner.
#Person2#: That sounds like fun.
#Person1#: Of course. We can do something else if you'd like.
#Person2#: No, no. The movie sounds great.
#Person1#: Well. How are we going? By bus or subway?
#Person2#: Uh, isn't it better if I drive to pick you up?
#Person1#: That's very kind of you. What time shall we start off?
#Person2#: How about 7:30?
#Person1#: Good. Let's make it.

Summary: Rose invites Jack to go to a movie after a western dinner this Friday. Jack agrees.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir.
#Person2#: Good morning.
#Person1#: How do you want it, sir?
#Person2#: Just take a little off on the top and shorten the back. But please don't make it too short.
#Person1#: How about your sideburns?
#Person2#: Just to the bottom of my ears. By the way, I'd like a shave, too.
#Person1#: All right. . . Tilt your head to the right, please.
#Person2#: How much is it?
#Person1#: Exactly five dollars.
#Person2#: Here you are. Thank you and goodbye.
#Person1#: You are welcome, sir. Good-bye.

Summary: #Person1# comes to #Person2# to have a haircut and a shave. #Person1# pays and says goodbye.


#Person1#: Mary, please go to the door. I hear the bell.
#Person2#: It's the mailman, Mother. Here's a letter from Uncle George.
#Person1#: Give it to me. . . How wonderful! He's coming to visit us.
#Person2#: When's he coming?
#Person1#: He's coming by car on the twenty-fourth. He's staying from thetwenty-fourth to the twenty-sixth.
#Person2#: Let me look at the calendar. Good! The twenty-fourth is a Saturday. Is he coming alone?
#Person1#: No, he's coming with Aunt Cynthia and the girls.
#Person2#: Mother, I don't remember the girls. How old are they?
#Person1#: Your cousin Fay is fifteen. Rosemary is older than Fay. She's seventeen.
#Person2#: Are they going to stay here with us?
#Person1#: Of course. The girls can stay in your room with you.
#Person2#: Mother, may we have a party?
#Person1#: If you like, but now we have to think about meals and many other things.
#Person2#: Prepare the list, Mother. I can go shopping. I can go to the small stores. Everyone knows me there.

Summary: Mary and #Person1#, her mother, receive a letter from Uncle George who's coming to visit them with his family from the twenty-fourth to the twenty-sixth. They will make some plans for the visit.


#Person1#: I need to make a plane reservation.
#Person2#: We can book your trip right now, what is your destination?
#Person1#: I need to fly to New York City.
#Person2#: What date would you like me to book this plane ticket for you?
#Person1#: I need a flight on July fourth.
#Person2#: You can fly out of Los Angeles International or Burbank Airport. Which do you prefer?
#Person1#: I will fly out of whatever airport with the cheapest price.
#Person2#: If you have a choice, would you rather fly in the morning or later in the day?
#Person1#: I would like to book an afternoon flight.
#Person2#: I have booked you a flight in the afternoon, your ticket will arrive in the mail, within 3 days.

Summary: #Person1# books an afternoon plane ticket to New York City on July fourth with #Person2#'s assistance.


#Person1#: Why is there no water coming out when you turn on the faucet?
#Person2#: Not even a single drop?
#Person1#: Well, it's just drip drip drip. But that's not water.
#Person2#: I don't know. Since yesterday morning, the water pressure has dropped to a little more than a drip.
#Person1#: Did you call the apartment management yet?
#Person2#: Yeah, I called and they said they'd send someone over.
#Person1#: How long ago did you do that?
#Person2#: It was 36 hours ago.
#Person1#: That's outrageous! I just don't understand why they're not on top of this.

Summary: #Person1# says there's no water out of the faucet. #Person2# called the apartment management long ago, but no one comes.


#Person1#: Are you looking forward to your trip to Canada, Susan?
#Person2#: I can't wait to see Canada, Jason, but I'm scared stiff of the journey. My husband insists on flying, but I want to sail. Planes make me nervous.
#Person1#: There's nothing to be frightened of. How many planes fly across the Atlantic every day?
#Person2#: I've no idea. Hundreds, I suppose.
#Person1#: And how often do you hear of a crash? Once or twice a year?
#Person2#: Yes, but aero-planes fly so high and fast that once is enough.
#Person1#: There are more road accidents per day than air deaths per year. Air transport is really safe compared with road transport.
#Person2#: I still prefer to go by sea. Ships may not travel fast but as least you can relax. I'd love a trip on a luxury liner like the Queen Elizabeth II.
#Person1#: It's fine if you're a good sailor, but have you ever traveled far in a rough sea?
#Person2#: No. I've only been in a boat once. I sailed down the River Thames on a sightseeing tour, but in any case I'd rather be sea - sick than dead.

Summary: Susan's husband insists on flying to Canada but Susan wants to sail. Jason thinks air transport is safer than road transport but Susan still prefers to sail even though she's only been in a boat once.


#Person1#: Are these all yours?
#Person2#: Yes, they are.
#Person1#: Cash or credit card?
#Person2#: I want to use these coupons. Have they expired?
#Person1#: Not yet. Oh, Madam, this item is no longer on sale, and this goes on sale tomorrow. Will you take them?
#Person2#: Yes, could you use plastic bags?
#Person1#: Sure, it is 80 yuan in all and you have to give me another coupon.
#Person2#: Could you charge it to my credit card?
#Person1#: Certainly.
#Person2#: Here you are.
#Person1#: Okay. Input your pin number, please. Sign here.
#Person2#: Sure.
#Person1#: Here's your receipt.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# uses some coupons and her credit card to pay for her bill with #Person1#'s assistance.


#Person1#: Peter, hi, how are you? I haven't seen you for ages.
#Person2#: Hello, Marry. Wow, it must be at least 5 years. What are you doing here?
#Person1#: I came for a meeting. Business trip, you know. Anyway, how are you?
#Person2#: I'm good, thanks. I still work in a school. What about you?
#Person1#: I have a new job now. So I have to travel a lot.
#Person2#: What do you do?
#Person1#: I work for a travel agency. Working in a restaurant was just too boring.
#Person2#: Your new job sounds interesting. Have you got time for a coffee? So we could catch up.
#Person1#: Sure, why not?
#Person2#: Oh, there's a nice cafe about 2 minutes from here.
#Person1#: Let's go then.

Summary: Peter and Marry haven't met for years. They tell each other what they've been doing and decide to go for a coffee.


#Person1#: I don't know if you remember, but with honest every day last year we tided the knot.
#Person2#: Of course I remember, actually, I am very surprised you remembered, I thought for sure you would forget.
#Person1#: How could I ever forget? I even bought you roses because I love you.
#Person2#: They are so beautiful. I love them, and I love you too.
#Person1#: You are more beautiful than the roses.
#Person2#: I don't know how, but I love you more than the day we gotta married.
#Person1#: Yes, we are match made in heaven.
#Person2#: I know of the past years we have faced and shared troubles, but we survived and here we are.
#Person1#: Yes, we did, we did have problems, but we shared a lot of happiness too. We countered the problems, and had a lot of happiness too.
#Person2#: Yes we did.
#Person1#: I love you, happy anniversary.
#Person2#: I love you, happy anniversary.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# recall the past happiness and difficulties they have encountered and wish each other a happy anniversary.


#Person1#: Hello, Jane. This is Peter speaking.
#Person2#: Hi, how are you?
#Person1#: Fine. And I've got some great news for you.
#Person2#: Really? What's it about?
#Person1#: I remember you are interested in watching golf games. The Houston Open will be running from May 26 to May 30. I'm sure you will be glad to watch the game.
#Person2#: Oh, that's great. But just a moment, let me check. Ah... It is a pity that I can't make it. I will be on business in China from May 25 to June 2.
#Person1#: Well, I'm sorry you have to be away on business then. Let me see. Another game, the US Open will be running from July 15 to July 18. How about that?
#Person2#: That's great. I will be on my holiday then. It would be wonderful if we could watch the game together.

Summary: Peter invites Jane to watch the Houston Open but Jane will be on business. Peter then invites her to the US open, and Jane gladly agrees.


#Person1#: When do children start school in your country?
#Person2#: Normally at six. Before that, they spend several years in the kindergarten or pre-school education center.
#Person1#: But thats only in the cities, isnt it?
#Person2#: Right. In the countryside, things are more complicated.
#Person1#: Can kids in the countryside get equally good benefits and education like those in the cities?
#Person2#: It depends. In some poor, underdeveloped areas, children's education is a problem. Many kids cannot afford to go to school.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# about children's education in the city and in underdeveloped areas in #Person2#'s country.


#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.

Summary: #Person2# gets up at 6 and takes a 20-minute walk to the office.


#Person1#: Where is that?
#Person2#: Take me to the airport, please.
#Person1#: (while driving)Are you in a hurry?
#Person2#: I have to be there before 17 00.
#Person1#: We'll make it except a jam. You know it's rush hour.
#Person2#: There's an extra ten in it for you if you can get me there on time.
#Person1#: I'll do my best.
#Person2#: (After arriving on time) Here's twenty dollars.
#Person1#: Do you have small bills?
#Person2#: No. If you can't break it, keep the change. But can you give me a receipt?
#Person1#: Here is your receipt. Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# takes #Person2# to the airport. After arriving on time, #Person2# asks #Person1# to keep the change and give #Person2# a receipt.


#Person1#: You're not looking happy. What's the matter?
#Person2#: Oh, nothing special. I'm just a bit tired.
#Person1#: With the job?
#Person2#: With everything, with everybody, with all this!
#Person1#: A good suggestion for you. You need a holiday.
#Person2#: It wasn't always like this, you know.
#Person1#: What do you mean?
#Person2#: Well, I mean. We always do the same thing. There's no variety in our lives.
#Person1#: You need a holiday. That's what's the matter.
#Person2#: Certainly, perhaps.

Summary: #Person2# is tired of the invariance of life and #Person1# thinks #Person2# needs a holiday.


#Person1#: Why, Ann, I haven't seen you for ages. How have you been?
#Person2#: Bob, it has been a long time, hasn't it? It must be at least a year.
#Person1#: No. We talked at the Johnson's Christmas party last December. Don't you remember?
#Person2#: That's right. Well, how are you? Still working for the Germen company?
#Person1#: No. I changed my job about 4 months ago. I'm with the World Bank now. How about you?
#Person2#: I'm still working at the University, but I transferred from the German Department to the Spanish Department.
#Person1#: Don't you tell me you speak Spanish, too?
#Person2#: Sure. I grew up in Spain, you know. German was what I studied in college.
#Person1#: All I have ever managed to learn is a little Italian.
#Person2#: Oh. excuse me, someone is knocking at the door. I'll talk to you again later, Bob.
#Person1#: It was nice talking to you, Ann.

Summary: Bob and Ann haven't seen each other for a long time. They tell each other how they have been doing recently.


#Person1#: Have a look at these brochures! Have you ever thought of visiting North Africa?
#Person2#: Well, I've traveled to Morocco on business twice and I'd really like to go there again on holiday.
#Person1#: Great. There is a flight on April twenty fifth and...
#Person2#: Flight? Forget it! My wife is afraid of flying.
#Person1#: Oh, in that case how about traveling by ship?
#Person2#: Sorry I get sea sick when I travel by ship.
#Person1#: Then North Africa is out of the question.
#Person2#: I guess so. What else can you suggest?
#Person1#: What about a coach tour around Europe? It includes different countries and it's quite cheap.
#Person2#: OK, that's probably the best idea.

Summary: #Person1# suggests visiting North Africa but #Person2# and his wife cannot go by air or by ship. They finally decide on a coach tour around Europe.


#Person1#: Hello, Mr. Green. This is Lin Tong. How are you?
#Person2#: Hi, Mr. Lin. I am leaving tomorrow and I am just packing.
#Person1#: Oh, sorry to interrupt you. But I am calling to say goodbye to you. I am awfully sorry to tell you that I am afraid I could not see you off at the airport tomorrow, because I will have to attend a very important meeting.
#Person2#: It doesn't matter, Mr. Lin. I can understand. I know you are always very busy. Work must come first.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot. You have been here for almost three weeks. How time flies!
#Person2#: Yes. And I would like to convey my thanks to you for your help during my stay here in Nanjing.
#Person1#: It is our pleasure. It has been a great pleasure to work with you.
#Person2#: Me too. I am looking forward to cooperating with you again.
#Person1#: Really? Great! We will. Well, what's your flight number? When are you leaving tomorrow?
#Person2#: It's Flight No. 104, Northey Airlines, which leaves at ten O'dock tomorrow evening.
#Person1#: OK, I will send someone to see you off.
#Person2#: That is so thoughtful of you.
#Person1#: My pleasure. Take care and have a nice trip.
#Person2#: Thanks a lot. My wife and I will be welcoming and looking forward to your visit.
#Person1#: Let's call it a deal. Hope to see you again soon. Keep in touch then. Byebye.
#Person2#: Goodbye. Thanks again.

Summary: Mr. Lin calls to tell Mr.Green he won't be to see off Mr.Green himself tomorrow at the airport. They express their gratitude and appreciation and say goodbye to each other on the phone.


#Person1#: just don't understand why we have to take the subway. Look at this place. It's modern enough. But it's far from lively.
#Person2#: It's convenient. People in network go everywhere by subway if they don't drive.
#Person1#: This isn't network, Frida. We are in San Francisco.
#Person2#: What's the difference?
#Person1#: We haven't come here in business but for pleasure. We should go out exciting. What can you see in the subway? Nothing!
#Person2#: What can you see from a tram or a double-decker?
#Person1#: I can see people who are walking on the sidewalk. I can see cars driving on the streets. I can see the sun shining and beautiful flowers dancing in the wind. I can even smell the scent of flowers and the freshness of the air.
#Person2#: But they are not as convenient as the subway.
#Person1#: You miss the point! We are not in a hurry to go anywhere.
#Person2#: Well, maybe you are right. We'll be more amused in a tram or a double-decker than on the subway.
#Person1#: I'm so glad you can finally see things in my way. Can we leave this dull place now?
#Person2#: What about the tickets? I've already bought them.
#Person1#: Just throw them away!

Summary: #Person1# complains about taking the subway because #Person1# thinks they will be more amused in a tram or a double-decker. #Person2# cannot understand at first but then agrees with #Person1#.


#Person1#: Is it your first time to join the sports meeting of Junior High School?
#Person2#: Yes, and it's great. What are the events at the sports meeting?
#Person1#: Long-distance race, dash, hurdle race, relay race, standing long jump, high jump, shotput and so on.
#Person2#: Our neighbor, Bruce, will take part in the relay race. Let's go have a look.
#Person1#: OK, let's go.
#Person2#: The competition will begin in 5 minutes, it's tense here.
#Person1#: Wonderful, Bruce is taking the lead.
#Person2#: Other competitors have almost caught up with him. They are neck and neck.
#Person1#: Come on, Bruce. Come on, Bruce.
#Person2#: Wow, Bruce crossed the line first.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# about the events at the sports meeting. They go to see their neighbor's relay race together.


#Person1#: Hey, Shirley! Want to join me for lunch. . . my treat!
#Person2#: Wow! Sure!
#Person1#: I must confess I have an ulterior motive for asking you to lunch.
#Person2#: Oh. . . that's OK. . . as long as you're buying!
#Person1#: I really want to pick your brain about something I've been thinking a lot about.
#Person2#: I'd love to help if I can.
#Person1#: Well, as you know, I have a Bachelor's degree in English literature and that's served me well so far, but I've always wanted to do some post-graduate work. . . maybe even get a Doctorate!
#Person2#: Wow! Just the idea of going back to school fills my head with pain.
#Person1#: But you have a Master's degree. . . hasn't that helped your career?
#Person2#: Yeah, I'd have to say it has. But I'm still paying for it, you know.
#Person1#: I know education is expensive, but it's been my lifelong dream. Call me crazy, but I've always wanted to have that PhD at the end of my name.
#Person2#: Well, getting a Doctorate degree would mean close to a decade of school. Can you afford that? Can you survive that?
#Person1#: I certainly can't afford it, but I'm sure I could find some good student loans.
#Person2#: I think you need to separate the dream of having a PhD from the reality of years of more schooling. It's not as romantic as you might think.
#Person1#: Yeah. . . I keep thinking about what I'll do with a Master's or Doctorate. I love language but I don't think there are a lot of well-paying jobs out there for experts on Shakespeare.
#Person2#: Uh huh, that's for sure. You might find that your only career choice is teaching other graduate students.

Summary: #Person1# invites Shirley for lunch because #Person1# wants to get some suggestions on #Person1#'s further study. #Person1# hesitates whether or not to apply for a Master's degree or even a Doctorate. Shirley suggests that #Person1# should consider the payment and future career choice.


#Person1#: I hear scientists in the US have discovered a new AIDS vaccine.
#Person2#: Does it work?
#Person1#: I don't know. The report says it is better than the old vaccines.
#Person2#: Don't count on it. I think the best way to prevent AIDS is to keep yourself clean by having clean sex and keeping a regular sex partner.
#Person1#: Right. That's why doctor say AIDS prevention means cleanness.

Summary: #Person1# says scientists have discovered a new AIDS vaccine but #Person2# thinks the best prevention is to keep yourself clean.


#Person1#: Julia, the apartment I looked at today is pretty decent-around 120 square meters.
#Person2#: Great. Where is it?
#Person1#: A new two-bedroom apartment, around 100 to 120 square meters, in the Sanlitun area.
#Person2#: What about the surrounding area?
#Person1#: Very quiet and safe. And it's got a lot of trees and plants.
#Person2#: That's good. Is the location easily accessible?
#Person1#: Yeah, it's near a bus stop.
#Person2#: Hmm. . . well, maybe we can buy this one then.

Summary: #Person2# tells Julia the apartment in Sanlitun is big, quiet, and convenient. They'll consider buying it.


#Person1#: I want to know why you're sitting with your mouth closed all the evening. What's wrong, honey?
#Person2#: Well, I don't like being a typist. There's no one to talk with and the day goes too slowly.
#Person1#: Then what do you plan to do?
#Person2#: I want to do some service work, like working in a hotel.
#Person1#: That's funny.
#Person2#: Well, in a hotel, I can meet kinds of people including foreigners. I'll have many chances to practice my English and that will improve my spoken English.
#Person1#: Do you have any special hotel in mind?
#Person2#: I hope to get a job at Holiday Inn. It's a well-known hotel and it's not far from our home.
#Person1#: But you have to work at night.
#Person2#: So what? It doesn't matter much as long as I feel happy I think.
#Person1#: Who will take care of Harry at night?
#Person2#: If I can't, you can ask your mother for help.
#Person1#: Harry is only one year old. I hope you'll think this over.

Summary: #Person2# dislikes being a typist because it's dull. She wants to work at Holiday Inn to meet various people and improve her English. But her husband worries that the one-year-old-kid can't be taken care of if she works at night.


#Person1#: Hi Vanessa, did you have a good weekend?
#Person2#: Oh yes, it was great. I went to see a special James Bond exhibition at the Science Museum.
#Person1#: Sounds interesting. Though aren't museums a bit expensive? By paid $8 last time I went.
#Person2#: This was only 650. I did buy a guidebook as well. That was an extra 295.
#Person1#: How did you get there?
#Person2#: You can take the underground but I went by bus. It stops just outside, I got very tired walking around the museum, though.
#Person1#: What did you see?
#Person2#: James Bond's plane, which was my favorite, and the tiny Camera and his car, things like that.
#Person1#: These sounds great. How early can you go in, at 9:00?
#Person2#: Not until 10 and we didn't get there until 11:30, so there wasn't enough time to see everything.
#Person1#: Can you eat there?
#Person2#: Yes. You can even take a picnic. I had a sandwich at the cafe. But you can get a hot meal at the restaurant.
#Person1#: I'd really like to go. On free next Saturday, that's the twenty-thirdth of April.
#Person2#: The exhibitions on until the twenty-seventh, so the Saturday may be busy.
#Person1#: Well, I'll go on the twenty-fourth then.

Summary: Vanessa went to see a special James Bond exhibition. #Person1# asks her about transportation, opening time, and food there. #Person1# thinks these are great and plans to go there on the twenty-fourth.


#Person1#: so, which sport do you prefer---basketball or baseball?
#Person2#: to be honest, I don't really care for either one.
#Person1#: I thought everyone liked basketball. Why don't you like it?
#Person2#: I used to play basketball when I was little, and I never scored a goal. Every time I watch a basketball game, I think about how horrible I was at it.
#Person1#: that makes sense.
#Person2#: how about you? What's your favorite sport of all time?
#Person1#: my absolute favorite is ice hockey.
#Person2#: have you ever seen a live game?
#Person1#: sure, many times. It's an exciting game for spectators to watch.
#Person2#: I've never really understood the game.
#Person1#: it's not that difficult. If you want to watch a game with me, I can explain the rules and the tactics while we're watching.
#Person2#: thanks, that'd be nice. When's the next ice hockey game on?
#Person1#: not for a while, but we could watch an old one on the internet so I can explain the game to you.
#Person2#: that's a good idea.
#Person1#: let's watch the Canadian team. They have a good manager and a great coach.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# doesn't like basketball and explains the reason. #Person1# likes ice hockey and invites #Person2# to watch an old game on the internet.


#Person1#: Look, Dad, many people are doing morning exercises here.
#Person2#: Yes. I used to come out here with my grandpa as child.
#Person1#: Really? You were so happy then.
#Person2#: Aren't you happy now? I hadn't seen the piano when I was a child.
#Person1#: Daddy, don't mention it.
#Person2#: The park is so beautiful. It is a good thing I have taken the camera.
#Person1#: Dad, I'd like to take a picture with the status.
#Person2#: All right. Give me a big smile. Are you ready? Cheese!
#Person1#: Daddy, we can't have a photo of the whole family. We can take one here.
#Person2#: Excuse me, sir. Could you take a photo for us? Just press this button.

Summary: #Person2#'s sightseeing in the park with his family. #Person2# takes a photo for his daughter, then he requests a passer-by to take a photo of the whole family.


#Person1#: Hello.
#Person2#: Hello, is that the reference library?
#Person1#: Yes. Can I help you?
#Person2#: I hope so. I rang earlier and asked for some information about Denys Hawtin, the scientist. You asked me to ring back.
#Person1#: Oh, yes. I have found something.
#Person2#: Good. I've got a pencil and paper. Perhaps you could read out what it says.
#Person1#: Certainly. Hawtin, Denys. Born: Darlington 1836; died New York 1920.
#Person2#: Yes. Got that.
#Person1#: Inventor and physicist. The son of a farm worker, he was admitted to the University of London at the age of fifteen.
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: He graduated at seventeen with a first class degree in Physics and Mathematics. All right?
#Person2#: Yes, all right.
#Person1#: He made his first notable achievement at the age of eighteen. It was a method of refrigeration which arose from his work in low temperature physics. He became professor of Mathematics at the University of Manchester at twenty-four, where he remained for twelve years. During that time he married one of his students, Natasha Willoughby.
#Person2#: Yes. Go on.
#Person1#: Later, working together in London, they laid the foundation of modern Physics by showing that normal laws of cause and effect do not apply at the level of subatomic particles. For this he and his wife received the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1910, and did so again in 1912 for their work on very high frequency radio waves. In his lifetime Hawtin patented 244 inventions. Do you want any more?
#Person2#: Yes. When did he go to America?
#Person1#: Let me see. In 1920 he went to teach in New York, and died there suddenly after only three weeks. Still, he was a good age.
#Person2#: Yes. I suppose so. Well, thanks.

Summary: #Person2# calls back to #Person1# who works in the reference library to get the information about Denys Hawtin. #Person1# reads out the findings to #Person2# and #Person2# writes down, including Denys Hawtin's birth and death date, the achievements he has made, and some life experience of him.


#Person1#: So, how's your work?
#Person2#: Good. How about you?
#Person1#: I am going to resign. A few of the new staff have already left. Obviously, a lot of similar jobs pay much better salaries.
#Person2#: But your company is huge. Can't they afford to pay the staff decent wages.
#Person1#: But we have a policy of paying according to seniority in the company, so new employees get quite low salary, no matter how excellent they have done.
#Person2#: That's shortsighted. By the time the workers are experienced and contributing. They are likely to go.
#Person1#: That's why I am going to leave.
#Person2#: But you have already worked there for five years.
#Person1#: I am worried about my future. I can't believe that our company is as big as it is. The company can only continue to grow by taking care of its staff.
#Person2#: Well. The management doesn't seem to think that way. Anyways, you have to think twice before you act.
#Person1#: Thank you. I will.

Summary: #Person1# wants to resign because the company pays according to seniority. #Person2# thinks the policy is shortsighted but also reminds #Person1# to think twice.


#Person1#: There's a big problem with my room. I'm in 507.
#Person2#: Would you tell me the nature of the problem, sir?
#Person1#: I have cockroaches crawling in my room.
#Person2#: Perhaps you saw a silverfish, sir.
#Person1#: I've seen nine more cockroaches than I wanted to see.
#Person2#: Sir, you haven't been drinking by any chance, have you?
#Person1#: How dare you question my statement!
#Person2#: Forgive me. You're 100 percent correct. Allow me to transfer you to my supervisor.

Summary: #Person1# complains that cockroaches are crawling in his room. #Person2#'ll transfer #Person1# to #Person2#'s supervisor.


#Person1#: Susan, I am inviting you and Frank to our house warming party this weekend.
#Person2#: A house warming party?
#Person1#: Yes, Deborah and I are going to buy a new home in Woodlawn.
#Person2#: Congratulations! That's wonderful. I bet both of you are quite happy.
#Person1#: Well, we have always dreamed of owning our own home, but real estate 1 in this area is extremely expensive.
#Person2#: I understand. That's why Christopher and I want to find a place in a small town, far from the city.
#Person1#: That's a good idea if you can find employment nearby.
#Person2#: I agree. That's why Christopher is already looking for a job in Maine, or Wisconsin.

Summary: #Person1# invites Susan to #Person1#'s house warming party as #Person1# will buy a new home. They think houses in that area are expensive.


#Person1#: So click here, then up to the top.
#Person2#: Er. . . Hum. . . Got it.
#Person1#: Then open that window. Yeah, that one.
#Person2#: Right!
#Person1#: And that's it. You're done.
#Person2#: I see what you mean. That was pretty easy after all.

Summary: #Person1# teaches #Person2# to operate the computer.


#Person1#: No, it hasn't. It's very dirty.
#Person2#: Someone ought to clean it today.
#Person1#: Mark should clean it. It's his turn.
#Person2#: No, he cleaned it last time. It's your turn.
#Person1#: No, it isn't. You always clean it after Mark.
#Person2#: Oh dear, is it really my turn? In that case, I'll clean tomorrow.
#Person1#: Clean it now. Only lazy people say they'll work tomorrow.
#Person2#: Then I'll clean it the day after tomorrow.
#Person1#: You are lazy. You ought to be ashamed? You should enjoy working.

Summary: #Person1# points out that it's #Person2#'s turn to clean, but #Person2# doesn't want to do it today.


#Person1#: Are you busy tomorrow night? I'm going over to the Workers Club for volleyball if you'd like to come along.
#Person2#: Isn't that far away?
#Person1#: Not really. If you take the No. 3 bus, you can get there in ten minutes. And if volleyball doesn't interest you, they've got a huge indoor swimming pool, a weight room, and indoor tracks. It's a great place to meet people. Would you like to go with me?
#Person2#: Now that you mentioned it, it would be nice to get away from the computer center for a change, and I really should get some more exercise. Working up a sweat in a ball game or the weight room would be nice. I've got so fat.
#Person1#: Just look at me! You're not the only one. In high school I had a lot more time to do sports activities. Now what little spare time you have must be used in doing exercise. At least the club is open until 12 pm.
#Person2#: I guess it's worth a visit. Did you say you're going tomorrow night?
#Person1#: Yeah.
#Person2#: OK, I'll come, too. How about meeting me in front of the cinema at eight, and we'll catch the bus there.
#Person1#: Sure, see you then.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to go over to the Workers Club for volleyball tomorrow night. #Person2# agrees. They think they have been getting too fat and decide to do more sports.


#Person1#: Good afternoon. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Is Ms. April Wang available at the moment?
#Person1#: I'm sorry, Sir. She's currently away at our sub-branch. Is there anything I can help you with?
#Person2#: I hope so. I'm in the process of applying for a credit card with you, and Ms. Wang asked me to drop off these documents.
#Person1#: Let me take a look. . . ID, yes, form completed, yes, well, it looks in order, Sir.
#Person2#: Do you need anything else from me?
#Person1#: We do require a deposit before we can issue you with a personal credit card.
#Person2#: No problem. How much? If I don't have enough on me, I'll pop over to the ATM and draw some.
#Person1#: The minimum deposit is 1, 500 RIB. But you will need to pay some small additional handling charges as well.
#Person2#: I think I can manage that. Let's see. . . yes, here we are.

Summary: #Person2# comes to meet Ms. April Wang to drop off some documents for his credit card application. #Person1# tells #Person2# Ms. April Wang isn't available and helps #Person2# with the process.


#Person1#: Passport and Embarkation card please.
#Person2#: Here you are, sir.
#Person1#: Where are you from?
#Person2#: I am from China.
#Person1#: Did you have anything to declare?
#Person2#: No, nothing.
#Person1#: Would you open this suitcase, please?
#Person2#: Sure.
#Person1#: Let me take a look at this bag. Can you open it?
#Person2#: Yup.
#Person1#: Is this camera a gift for someone?
#Person2#: No, it's my camera for personal use.
#Person1#: You have to pay tax for this camera.
#Person2#: No, please don't. It's is for my personal use.
#Person1#: You have a lot of gifts, so you have to pay for the camera.
#Person2#: Almost all are for my friends in the States.

Summary: #Person1# checks #Person2#'s suitcase and lets #Person2# pay tax for the camera, though it is for personal use.


#Person1#: Julia, are you free tonight?
#Person2#: What's up?
#Person1#: I want to invite you to go to the movies.
#Person2#: Are you asking me for a date?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: I don't like to go to the movies on a date. It's noisy there.
#Person1#: Where do you want to meet?
#Person2#: Let's go to the coffee shop then. It's quiet there.
#Person1#: What time should we meet?
#Person2#: How about seven?
#Person1#: All right.

Summary: #Person1# invites Julia to the movies for a date, but Julia prefers the coffee shop because it's quiet.


#Person1#: Honey, do you have a second?
#Person2#: Sure! Are you okay? You seem a bit worried. What's on your mind?
#Person1#: We need to talk.
#Person2#: Okay. . .
#Person1#: I've been thinking, and well, I think we need to start seeing other people.
#Person2#: What? Why? I mean, we've had our ups and downs, and we have the occasional disagreement, but we're happy together, aren't we?
#Person1#: That's just it, I'm not happy anymore, Tim. It's not you, it's me. I know that I can be hard to deal with, and you are a great guy! You are the type of guythat any woman would kill for!
#Person2#: So, what are you saying? You're breaking up with me because I'm perfect?
#Person1#: Tim, you are too good for me. You deserve someone who can make you smile and make you happy the way that you made me happy. Oh, I could say that I'll be all you need, but that would be a lie. I know I'd only hurt you, I know I'd only make you cry.
#Person2#: Baby, come on. Don't do this to me! Whatever it is, we can work it out. Just give me another chance! I know that we can get through this, but we gotta stick together! Don't leave me.
#Person1#: I can't, Tim. I hope someday you can find some way to understand I'm only doing this for you. I don't really wanna go but, deep in my heart I know this is the kindest thing to do.
#Person2#: Laura. . .
#Person1#: Here are your keys. I'll send my sister to pick up the rest of my things next week. I'm sorry, Tim. I wish you all the best, and I hope that one day we can meet again. I'll always love you. Goodbye.

Summary: Laura tells Tim they should start seeing other people. Laura thinks Tim is too good for her and deserves better so Laura wants to break up with him, but Tim wants another chance to work things out. Laura insists on leaving Tim and says she will always love him.


#Person1#: I've never met anyone like Clyde before.
#Person2#: He's such a buppie-a black yuppie. Black people come in all shapes and sizes. Just check out the party.
#Person1#: Wow! There are so many different people here. I expected mostly athletes and rappers.
#Person2#: You'll find some of those here, too. But not if you don't shake it up! There's an African saying, ' If you can talk, you can sing! If you can walk, you can dance! '
#Person1#: Then I'll just shut up and sit down!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about black people at the party who are born to be good at singing and dancing.


#Person1#: So am I on the right road to Piccadilly Circus?
#Person2#: I think so, ' cause I remember the policeman told me this is the very way.
#Person1#: What did he say?
#Person2#: Just head straight up the street about two blocks and then turn left.
#Person1#: That's it. I think we're one block beyond.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# think they are on the right road according to the policeman's words.


#Person1#: David, do you think which team will get the champion tonight?
#Person2#: It is hard to guess now. Both of the teams chose the excellent players this time. I guess the game will end in a tie. They are equally matched.
#Person1#: I am so nervous now. What a terrific game!
#Person2#: Which side are you on?
#Person1#: It's hard to say, because each team has my idols.
#Person2#: Wow! AC wins. It is a close shave, you know.
#Person1#: I will never forget this match. The angle is so terrible and so correct.
#Person2#: What a good goal!

Summary: David and #Person1# are watching a game. It's hard for them to guess the champion. Finally, AC wins.


#Person1#: And what time do you call this then?
#Person2#: look, I'm sorry, Mrs. Miller...
#Person1#: Ten o'clock is a fine time to roll into work, isn't it?
#Person2#: Yes, I know I'm a bit late, but...
#Person1#: A bit late! Listen to that! A bit late, he says.
#Person2#: Please, Mrs. Miller, my train...
#Person1#: Oh, don't tell me .... your train was late.
#Person2#: No, it wasn't, it...
#Person1#: Well, what's your excuse this time then, George?
#Person2#: The eight thirty train was cancelled so I had to wait for the next train.
#Person1#: Cancelled, was it?
#Person2#: Yes, they said it had engine trouble.
#Person1#: Well, that's rather strange. Harry got here all right. He didn't seem to have any problem with the eight thirty!
#Person2#: Oh...er... which machine shall I start on? This blue car, Mrs. Miller?

Summary: #Person2# makes an excuse for being late that the eight-thirty train was canceled. Mrs. Miller sees through #Person1#'s lie and is very angry.


#Person1#: Doctor! Doctor! Help me, please!
#Person2#: Take it easy, please! Sit here, now, what's the matter with you? And can I help you?
#Person1#: I feel sick. I have a bad stomach-ache, and my head troubles me a lot.
#Person2#: Well, let me have a check. Open your mouth please. And say 'Ah'.
#Person1#: Ah! Is that serious, doctor?
#Person2#: Not really. Did you have your supper this evening?
#Person1#: No, I only had some bananas.
#Person2#: And the bananas were not quite ripe, right?
#Person1#: Well, yes, they were a bit green.
#Person2#: That explains it.
#Person1#: I wish I had not eaten them.
#Person2#: Take this medicine twice a day and I'm sure you'll be fine.
#Person1#: Thanks, doctor. I'll do as you told me. Good-bye, doctor.
#Person2#: Bye! And take care.

Summary: #Person1# has a stomach-ache. The doctor checks #Person1#'s month and learns that #Person1# had raw bananas, so the doctor prescribes some medicine for #Person1#.


#Person1#: Every year, the South has the floods. It is an act of God.
#Person2#: Do you really think so?
#Person1#: Yeah, you have some other ideas?
#Person2#: I think, in some way it is an act of God, but in another way, it just is caused by us.
#Person1#: For example?
#Person2#: We didn't pay attention to the environment, cut down trees and polluted the air.
#Person1#: Oh, I see. Fortunately government has taken some action to prevent such things.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the floods are an act of God, but #Person2# thinks it's caused by humans.


#Person1#: Susan, good evening. Why are you so dressed up?
#Person2#: I am on my way out to a New Year's banquet. How do I look? Is my make-up OK?
#Person1#: You look great. Your make-up is perfect.
#Person2#: Do you think I should wear a different dress?
#Person1#: No, the one you have on looks fabulous, especially with your hair like that.
#Person2#: Thanks for saying. Do you have any ideas which necklace I should wear?
#Person1#: With that dress I'd say your white diamond necklace would look perfect.
#Person2#: Thanks for helping out. Now that I'm ready, what are you doing tonight?
#Person1#: Not much, just a house party with some friends.
#Person2#: Sounds fun. Anyone I know?
#Person1#: Yeah, most of the people are from our office.
#Person2#: Sounds Like I'm missing out on a good time. Oh, well, there is always next year.
#Person1#: I'm sure you'll have fun no matter where you go. Remember to take your bag.

Summary: Susan dresses up to attend a New Year's banquet and asks #Person1# for advice on her dressing and necklace. #Person1#'ll have a house party tonight.


#Person1#: Hello, IMPF Bank, how can I help you?
#Person2#: I need to report a missing Bank Card and Book.
#Person1#: OK Sir. Could you tell me the account holder's name, the account number, the amount in the account and your PIN number, please?
#Person2#: Well, the account's in my name. Patrick Dean, that's D-E-A-N. The account number is 15273478841. There was about 20, 000 RMB inside.
#Person1#: OK, Sir. Almost there, I just need your PIN number. When we issue you with a new card and book we would recommend that you change your PIN number. It's a very simple procedure.
#Person2#: OK, it's 672910.

Summary: #Person1# helps Patrick Dean to deal with his missing bank card and book.


#Person1#: Sometimes you look like brains, and sometimes you are simple a Barbie Doll.
#Person2#: I don't know whether I am a Barbie Doll or you are one.
#Person1#: Maybe I am a Barbie Doll, but I won't do Barbie Doll things.
#Person2#: Well, I am not going to flog a dead horse. Let get down to our brass tasks and tidy these things up.

Summary: #Person1# satirizes #Person2# but #Person2# doesn't want to fight and suggests finishing their brass tasks.


#Person1#: Can I get you any dessert?
#Person2#: Yes, I'd like to try the blueberry pie.
#Person1#: Excellent choice. ( He brings her the pie. After she finishes, the waiter comes back. ) Would you like anything else?
#Person2#: No, I'm stuffed. I'm ready for the check.
#Person1#: Here you are. Thank you and have a nice evening.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# is ready for the check after #Person2# brings her the blueberry pie.


#Person1#: Hello, this is Freda speaking.
#Person2#: Hello, Freda. It is me-Steven. I was wondering if you'd like to watch football games with me.
#Person1#: Yes, I'd like to. But when?
#Person2#: Well, how about Friday evening?
#Person1#: Oh, I'm afraid I can't. I've got to work until 9 o'clock.
#Person2#: Oh, what a pity!
#Person1#: But what about Saturday evening? I'm free then.
#Person2#: Yes, Saturday evening would be fine.
#Person1#: Oh, good. What time shall we meet?
#Person2#: Shall we say a quarter to seven?
#Person1#: Right. I'll see you then.

Summary: Steven invites Freda to watch football games together. They agree on watching it on Saturday evening.


#Person1#: Hello! So, you're back. Do you have everything with you?
#Person2#: I think so.
#Person1#: We will need detailed information regarding the full name of the company, the company address. . .
#Person2#: Yes, yes. I've got all of that here.
#Person1#: And also, the bank and branch name the company holds an account with and the account number.
#Person2#: Check, check and check.
#Person1#: What's the purpose for this check? Would you like to know its repayment capacity?
#Person2#: Yes, that's one of the main things we are interested in. When do you think I can get hold of this report?
#Person1#: As it's confidential there is a certain amount of red tape, but it shouldn't take too long. There is, of course a service fee of 300 RMB to be paid.
#Person2#: No problem, I'll settle that now. You can take it from my Business Account.

Summary: #Person1# asks some more detailed information of the company from #Person2# and #Person2# asks when #Person1# will get the report.


#Person1#: Good morning. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: Good morning. Would you like to tell me something about the computer? I've never seen this brand before. What is your superior brand?
#Person1#: This is our new brand. I can make sure our computer board is one of the best boards.
#Person2#: Can you tell me the specialty of your computer board?
#Person1#: With pleasure. It's easy to have a memory expansion on board capacity and fulfill your needs for a computer. Besides, there is more space for extra cards to expand later on.
#Person2#: What's the memory capacity of the computer?
#Person1#: The hard drive has 260 G and the RAM is 4 G.
#Person2#: Can you give me a wholesale list?
#Person1#: Yes. The price differs depending on how many you want.
#Person2#: Is the price negotiable?
#Person1#: Yes. It depends. If you have a large order, we will give you a discount.

Summary: #Person1# introduces the specialty of their computer board to #Person2# and tells #Person2# they will give a discount if #Person2# has a large order.


#Person1#: What's the matter with you then? You look miserable.
#Person2#: It's us.
#Person1#: What do you mean by us?
#Person2#: Well, you always say you're busy.
#Person1#: That's right.
#Person2#: And you often go back to live with your parents and leave our son in the room by himself.
#Person1#: I. . . I. . . I miss my parents, also they miss me.
#Person2#: Oh I remember, I cut terrible calls, and you didn't say anything about it.
#Person1#: You mean I am groaned a few words?
#Person2#: Totally not. Perhaps it's about our marriage.

Summary: #Person2# complains about #Person1# and their marriage. #Person1# tries to explain.


#Person1#: I left a suitcase on the train to London the other day.
#Person2#: Can you describe it, sir?
#Person1#: It's a small blue case and it's got a zip. There's a label on the handle with my name and address on it.
#Person2#: Is this case yours?
#Person1#: No, that's not mine.
#Person2#: What about this one? This one's got a label.
#Person1#: Let me see it.
#Person2#: What's you name and address?
#Person1#: David Hall, 83, Bridge Street.
#Person2#: That's right. D. N. Hall. 83. Bridge Street. Three pound and fifty pence please.
#Person1#: Here you are.
#Person2#: Thank you.
#Person1#: Hey!
#Person2#: What's the matter?
#Person1#: This case doesn't belong to me! You've given me the wrong case!

Summary: David Hall asks #Person2# to help him find the suitcase he left on the train to London but #Person2# gives him the wrong one.


#Person1#: Are you going to the cafeteria downstairs?
#Person2#: Yes.
#Person1#: Could you please get me a takeaway? I have some urgent work to finish. So I don't have enough time to go out for lunch.
#Person2#: No problem. What should I bring?
#Person1#: I am not picky on food. Just bring me the day menu.

Summary: #Person1# requests #Person2# to get #Person1# a takeaway from the cafeteria.


#Person1#: That was a nice funeral.
#Person2#: Yes, dad, it was.
#Person1#: The son gave a nice speech about his father.
#Person2#: It was long, too.
#Person1#: I think it was about 45 minutes long.
#Person2#: But it went by fast. It was interesting.
#Person1#: I liked it.
#Person2#: I'll give you a speech like that, too.
#Person1#: Do you think anyone will come to my funeral?
#Person2#: Of course.
#Person1#: I think only the family will be there.
#Person2#: You have lots of friends. They will be there, too!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# think the funeral is nice. #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'ll give a nice speech at #Person1# funeral.


#Person1#: To get around your difficulty, Mr. Smith. I'd suggest that you reduce your order by half. You can send in an additional order later.
#Person2#: Well, I'll consider the possibility. By the way, when do I have to open the L / C if I want the goods to be delivered in June.
#Person1#: A month before the time you want the goods to be delivered.
#Person2#: Could you possibly effect shipment more promptly?
#Person1#: Getting the goods ready, making out the documents and booking the shipping space, all this takes time you know. You cannot expect us to make delivery in less than a month.
#Person2#: Very well, Mr. Zhang. I'll not reduce my order. I'll take the full quantity you offer. And I'll arrange for the L / C to be opened in your favor as soon as I get home.
#Person1#: When will that be?
#Person2#: Early next month. In the meantime, I should be very pleased if you would get everything ready. I hope that the goods can be dispatched promptly after you get my L / C.
#Person1#: You can rest assured of that.

Summary: Mr. Zhang suggests Mr.Smith reduce his order and tells him he should open the L / C before the time of the delivery, but Mr. Smith won't reduce his order and will arrange for the L / C to be opened as soon as he gets home.


#Person1#: Hi Jane, can you let me know the best way to get to your house this evening?
#Person2#: Certainly, where will you be coming from?
#Person1#: I need to be in the city centre this afternoon so I will be coming straight from there.
#Person2#: Ok. Take the Underground, the Circle line, to High Street Kensington. Make sure you take the High Street Kensington exit.
#Person1#: Got that.
#Person2#: Ok - when you leave the Underground, cross the road and you should see Horntown Street. Was up that street to the crossroads. As you was you should see a fast food place on your right.
#Person1#: Hold on, I am looking at the map now. Ok, I can see Horntown Road. Do I go straight at the intersection?
#Person2#: No, you need to turn left into Philimore Was and take the next right.
#Person1#: Ok, I can see that road.
#Person2#: That's fine. You will not miss it because it's just next to the Kensington centra Library.
#Person1#: Good, I can see the library on the map.
#Person2#: Ok, we live in the third building on your left. Will we see you around 7 pm?
#Person1#: That's great, see you at seven.

Summary: #Person1# will visit Jane tonight and Jane tells #Person1# the best way to her house. #Person1# will see Jane at seven.


#Person1#: Mary, I hope you're packed and ready to leave.
#Person2#: Yes, I'm packed, but not quite ready. I can't find my passport.
#Person1#: Your passport? That's the one thing you mustn't leave behind.
#Person2#: I know. I haven't lost it. I've packed it, but I can't remember which bag it's in.
#Person1#: Well, you have to find it at the airport. Come on, the taxi is waiting.
#Person2#: Did you say taxi? I thought we were going in your car.
#Person1#: Yes, well, I have planned to, but I'll explain later. You've got to be there in an hour.
#Person2#: The plane doesn't leave for two hours. Anyway, I'm ready to go now.
#Person1#: Now, you're taking just one case, is that right?
#Person2#: No, there is one in the hall as well.
#Person1#: Gosh, what a lot of stuff! You're taking enough for a month instead of a week.
#Person2#: Well, you can't depend on the weather. It might be cold.
#Person1#: It's never cold in Rome. Certainly not in May. Come on, we really must go.
#Person2#: Right, we're ready. We've got the bags. I'm sure there's no need to rush.
#Person1#: There is. I asked the taxi driver to wait two minutes, not twenty.
#Person2#: Look, I'm supposed to be going away to relax. You're making me nervous.
#Person1#: Well, I want you to relax on holiday, but you can't relax yet.
#Person2#: OK, I promise not to relax, at least not until we get to the airport and I find my passport.

Summary: Mary has packed the passport but can't find it. #Person1# tells her the taxi is waiting and should hurry up, however, #Person1# finds Mary take a lot of stuff. Mary says there's no need to rush, and #Person1# makes her nervous.


#Person1#: What are you doing?
#Person2#: I'm just looking for a nice pillow on Ebay.
#Person1#: You are shopping for a pillow online? That's absurd!
#Person2#: Why? I don't have to leave the house or browse a dozen stores to find what I'm looking for. This way, I just search for it online quick and easy.
#Person1#: I see, but how do you pay for it? How do you know you aren't going to be ripped off by the seller?
#Person2#: Well, the website handles a point system where if the seller does something wrong, people comment negatively and then you know that he or she may not be trustworthy.
#Person1#: Wow, that sounds pretty safe. So how do you pay? Do you need a credit card?
#Person2#: You can use a credit card or your debit card. They also let you use the Paypal system which is really safe and fast. I have never had any problems with someone hacking my information or anything.
#Person1#: Do you think I can find a sweater for my dog online?
#Person2#: You can find anything! Are you sure you want to start shopping online though? Once you step into this world, there is no turning back!
#Person1#: Let's do it!

Summary: #Person1# can't believe #Person2#'s shopping online but #Person2# tells #Person1# it's quick and easy because #Person2# doesn't need to go out but can refer to other customers' comments and pay by card. #Person1#'ll try.


#Person1#: How did you get around over there? Did you rent cars?
#Person2#: No, that would be too expensive. We used the train system. We bought a special pass called a Eurail pass. It lets people use the train wherever they want, as often as they want.
#Person1#: I've heard about Eurail passes. So those Europeans really depend on trains a lot.
#Person2#: Yes, they do. I wish we Americans had a better train system.
#Person1#: I know. Our train system is lousy. And besides, Americans love their cars too much.
#Person2#: I agree. And probably the automobile companies are too powerful. They never allowed the government to develop trains.
#Person1#: It's too bad for the environment. So much pollution from cars.
#Person2#: Americans love cars for different reasons, I think. One reason is that we are very individualistic. And cars are a very individual way of getting around. Americans like the freedom of driving around by themselves. They don't want to ride in a train or bus with a group of people.
#Person1#: Yes, I agree. I think it is a cultural characteristic. It would be very hard to get us Americans to change this. But you know what? Probably, in the future, Americans will have to change.
#Person2#: Why do you say 'have to'?
#Person1#: Because the earth's environment can't tolerate cars forever. I think cars are already causing global warming. When the problem gets more serious, world governments will have to start limiting car use.
#Person2#: Maybe you're right. They will have to develop alternative transportation. But it will be hard in America. Too many people are used to cars. Even in our movies cars are very important.
#Person1#: Wow! I didn't notice the time. It's almost noon. I have to get home.
#Person2#: Do you want me to give you a ride?
#Person1#: No, no problem. I have my car in the parking ramp around the corner.
#Person2#: Alright. Well, I'll stay here and have another coffee. Nice running into you.
#Person1#: See you around.

Summary: #Person1# says that Europeans always travel by train, while #Person2# says Americans often travel by car because Americans are very individualistic. #Person1# thinks Americans will have to change because cars are causing global warming and world governments will have to start limiting car use. #Person1# will have to go home and #Person2# will stay and have another coffee.


#Person1#: She is, like, mega-intense, isn't she?
#Person2#: Ha, she is unstoppable. I'm learning so much from her.
#Person1#: What's it like to work with her?
#Person2#: She's demanding. But I like that. I mean, I know our timeline is tight.
#Person1#: Tell me about it.
#Person2#: You guys are working around the clock, I know. That guy Dave next to Zina never leaves.
#Person1#: Vince wants us to have everything debugged and ready to go by the end of the month.

Summary: #Person2# shares with #Person1# the feelings of working with one of their colleagues.


#Person1#: Can I borrow your notes for history? I'll return them tomorrow.
#Person2#: Why didn't you use your notes? I saw you take notes carefully in every class.
#Person1#: It was raining cats and dogs yesterday when I was walking home after school. I didn't take an umbrella. My notebook was completely wet and I could no longer recognize the words.
#Person2#: Bad luck. I was almost caught in the rain, too. Luckily, Mike's father gave me a lift and I arrived home before it started pouring.
#Person1#: So do you have your notes with you now?
#Person2#: No, they're in my closet. I'll get them for you after school today.
#Person1#: Thanks.
#Person2#: By the way, what about going swimming tonight?
#Person1#: Not tonight. I'll copy all your notes tonight, or I can't return them to you tomorrow.
#Person2#: Oh, right. well, I hope it won't rain today, or I'll have to borrow notes, too.

Summary: #Person1# wants to borrow #Person2#'s notes because #Person1#'s is wet. #Person2# will get the notes for #Person1# after school. #Person2# invites #Person1# to swim but #Person1# refuses because #Person1# has to copy all the notes tonight.


#Person1#: Hello, Joanna. You are looking very charming in the new dress.
#Person2#: Thanks. Does it suit me?
#Person1#: Yes, it suits you very well. It certainly is unique. I don't think I'Ve seen anything like it before.
#Person2#: I know. That's why I bought it. I hate wearing the same styles like everybody else is wearing.
#Person1#: And the necklace, it matches your dress marvelously.
#Person2#: It's very nice of you to say so. I should say you are glamorous yourself, as a matter of fact.
#Person1#: Thank you for saying so.

Summary: #Person1# praises Joanna for her dress and necklace. Joanna thinks #Person1# is glamorous.


#Person1#: Hi, Mrs. Henderson.
#Person2#: Hi, Steven. Do you have time and chat with me?
#Person1#: Of course I have plenty of time. What's new?
#Person2#: The new couple next door divorced. Have you heard about it?
#Person1#: No. The Hills? Who filed for divorce first?
#Person2#: I guess it Is Mrs. Hill. She sued for divorce on the grounds of her husband's misconduct with his secretary.
#Person1#: Oh, maybe not. It's just your guess. Do not give currency to idle gossip.
#Person2#: OK. I close my mouth.

Summary: Mrs. Henderson tells Steven that the Hills divorced but Steven asks her not to gossip.


#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#: 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.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to a new ski area and suggests #Person2# take a three-day-long training camp. #Person2# will think about it.


#Person1#: I am not sure what to do during the holidays, any suggestions?
#Person2#: Well, going to a cinema, visiting the galleries, exhibitions and museums, finding and meeting old friends, exercising in the health club or mountain biking. There are so many good choices.
#Person1#: The problem is that I find all of them are full of fun. I just don't know what to do first.
#Person2#: Why not start with the most interesting one?
#Person1#: Actually, I'm interested in all of them. The more choices we have, the harder to make a decision.
#Person2#: Toss a coin to decide then.

Summary: #Person1# doesn't know what to do during the holidays because there are so many choices. #Person2# suggests tossing a coin.


#Person1#: There's a major problem with room 507.
#Person2#: I'm sorry to hear that. Please tell me the exact problem.
#Person1#: This room is overrun with cockroaches.
#Person2#: There has been an occasional silverfish in the hotel, sir.
#Person1#: I stopped counting at nine.
#Person2#: Sir, this hotel just passed a thorough insect inspection with flying colors.
#Person1#: Your inspector needs spectacles. The fact is that cockroaches are running rampant.
#Person2#: I apologize, sir. Just a second, while I transfer you to my supervisor.

Summary: #Person1# calls #Person2# to complain about the overrun cockroaches in #Person1#'s room. #Person2# will transfer #Person1# to #Person2#'s supervisor.


#Person1#: Hi, Robert. What happened to your face? It looks swollen.
#Person2#: I had to go get a cavity filled today.
#Person1#: Did it hurt?
#Person2#: I don't even wanna talk about it. It killed me!
#Person1#: How long were you in the chair?
#Person2#: It took quite a while, but the worst part was getting numbed. They had to give me 3 shoots.
#Person1#: Well, I guess you've learned a good lesson, huh. You have to take good care of your teeth.
#Person2#: No kidding. Not only can't I stand the pain, but man. . . dentists are expensive. The bill is going to be humungous!
#Person1#: Don't you have a dental insurance?
#Person2#: I do, but it still does not cover everything.

Summary: Robert got a cavity filled today and shares this painful experience with #Person1#.


#Person1#: Get up as early as six o'clock only to be jammed at every crossroad and still late for work. What a life! I've had enough of it.
#Person2#: Cool down, man. Everyone is fed up with the rush-hour traffic. But life isn't really all that. You should take the initiative and make some changes first.
#Person1#: What should I do then?
#Person2#: I recommend you ride a bike instead of commuting by bus. It may offer you many beneits. First, it's good for your health. I'm afraid it's not necessary for me to further elaborate. While lots of people spend time like an hour each morning exercising, a bike ride to work not only builds you up, but also makes full use of time. You might as well sleep out for a longer hour.
#Person1#: I know cycling is always a more favorable choice than a bus. After all, it's a sport. But do you think it a pleasant experience to take in the dirty, pollued air on the road?
#Person2#: Well, such things are just unavoidable in a great metropolis like Beijing. I think a still more desirable benefit is psychological. Bicycling home after work can help release your stress. Life in the offices is miserable. You just sit there in a daze, gazing at the monitor and dealing with files and documents. Why don't you give a full play to your energy after work? Enjoy the speed on the road. Just think, you are falshing past the poles with your own energy. How great!

Summary: #Person1# has had enough of getting up early but still is late for work. #Person2# recommends #Person1# to ride a bike to work instead of commuting by bus, which is good for health and helps release stress.


#Person1#: Sally! Sally! Could you please turn off the radio? I hate to have to say this, but it's too noisy here.
#Person2#: What? But...
#Person1#: You know I'm reading my books and I'm preparing for my English exam this afternoon.
#Person2#: I know that. But I'm not listening to the radio. The noise comes from our neighbours upstairs.
#Person1#: Oh! How terrible! I'll talk to them and let them be quiet!

Summary: #Person1# asks Sally to turn off the radio but the noise actually comes from their neighbors upstairs.


#Person1#: Verry sorry to have kept you waiting so long. What do you want, Madam?
#Person2#: I want haircut and perm.
#Person1#: How long would you like your haircut today?
#Person2#: Just cut a little off.
#Person1#: You wanna tight, medium or naturally curly perm?
#Person2#: I'd like to have medium.
#Person1#: How about you hair style?
#Person2#: Can you tell me my choices?
#Person1#: Well, with perm we can do very kinds patterns such as bob, chocolate hairstyle or bang. Which do you prefer?
#Person2#: I want the chocolate one. I want to have it the big waves.
#Person1#: It looks wonderful.
#Person2#: Turn the chair I can see myself in the mirror.
#Person1#: What do you think of it?
#Person2#: Beautifully done, many thanks.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# to cut her hair a little off and do a medium chocolate perm. #Person2# likes the haircut very much.


#Person1#: Gordon, I'm going to Keswick in the Lake District this weekend.
#Person2#: Really?
#Person1#: Yeah, five of us. Why don't you join us? We're getting to Keswick on Friday. Then we're going boating on Saturday. And on Sunday, we're going to do some shopping. Then I will take some time to visit my aunt Lucy.
#Person2#: You're not going to camp, are you? Isn't it a bit cold?
#Person1#: No, we're not. It is a bit cold. We're staying in a country inn. It's not like five-star hotels or anything. But it's really comfortable.
#Person2#: Hmm, sounds interesting. You know, it's the boating that I don't like.
#Person1#: Well, what are you up to?
#Person2#: Sit on my sofa all weekend and watch the DVDs I've just bought. And that will be a busy weekend. I may finish watching Friends.
#Person1#: I don't know how you can do that all weekend, Gordon. I'd get bored.
#Person2#: I know, I know. But that's really what I want to do.

Summary: #Person1# invites Gordon to go to Keswick together so that they can go boating and do shopping there. However, Gordon refuses because he wants to watch the DVDs on the weekend.


#Person1#: I am so busy today.
#Person2#: Can I help you?
#Person1#: I ' m not sure. Perhaps you could do the shopping.
#Person2#: I ' ll be glad to help.
#Person1#: Or maybe make the beds.
#Person2#: All you have to do is ask for help.
#Person1#: Thanks. That ' s terrific!
#Person2#: I ' m ready and willing to help.

Summary: #Person1#'s busy today. #Person2# offers to do anything #Person2# can help.


#Person1#: As we know, mobile phones bring people great convenience and shorten the distance among friends and relatives.
#Person2#: It bears a great many of advantages, but also some weak points.
#Person1#: Is it? I've never thought of any disadvantages of the mobile phone.
#Person2#: For instance, the mobile phone seriously distracts the attention of people from work and study.
#Person1#: That's true. Some people pay too much attention to their mobile phones.
#Person2#: Actually, it's not the fault of the mobile phone. But people should have a proper attitude towards it. Mobile phone is a tool serving people, not the fetters restricting them.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the mobile phone brings people convenience. #Person2# agrees but gives another opinion, the mobile phone distracts people.


#Person1#: Did you watch TV last night, Rose?
#Person2#: Yeah. I saw a science program. It was quite interesting.
#Person1#: What was it about?
#Person2#: Mars. Scientists say there might be water on it.
#Person1#: If so, we may live there someday.
#Person2#: I hope so. Did you know the US successfully sent two robotic explorers to Mars last month?
#Person1#: Sure. I heard about this on the TV. On January 3rd, 2004, Explorer Spirit landed near the so-called Guser Crater. And three weeks later, Spirit's twin explorer, Opportunity, landed on Meridian Planum named by scientists.
#Person2#: Yes. Both have sent back pictures of the planet. And the latter did a better job.

Summary: #Person2# saw a science program about Mars last night. #Person1# heard on the TV that the US successfully sent explorers to Mars.


#Person1#: Excuse me, sir. Which would you like? A Chinese or a western meal?
#Person2#: Chinese food, please.
#Person1#: Please put down the table in front of you. Here, like this.
#Person2#: Oh, thank you. That's very kind of you.
#Person1#: It's my pleasure. What would you like to drink? Tea, coffee, orange juice?
#Person2#: Do you have any soybean milk?
#Person1#: Yes, here you are. We also have some very nice orange juice. Would you like to try some?
#Person2#: Thanks a lot. Just a small cup, please. By the way, how long does the flight take? And can I have a seat beside a window? I'd like to enjoy the scenery outside.
#Person1#: About 6 hours, and it lands at 8:00 PM. I'll ask someone to see if you can change seats.

Summary: #Person2# chooses a Chinese meal, soybean milk, and a small cup of orange juice on the plane. He asks #Person1# about the duration of the flight and requests to change his seat.


#Person1#: Congratulations, Betty.
#Person2#: Thank you. What about Peter?
#Person1#: Oh, he dropped the stick.
#Person2#: Bad luck! Do you know who won the high jump?
#Person1#: Joe from our class.
#Person2#: Your class do very well at the sports meeting. By the way, what sport are you taking part in?
#Person1#: Swimming.
#Person2#: Good luck to you.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# thinks #Person1#'s class is doing well in the sports meeting. #Person1# will take part in swimming.


#Person1#: Steven, what are you thinking about?
#Person2#: Oh, you know, tomorrow is Vicky's birthday. I am thinking what gift to give her.
#Person1#: That's easy. A girl at her age must like beautiful ornaments. How about a hair pin?
#Person2#: It's a bad idea. Vicky has short hair.
#Person1#: Well, what about a brooch?
#Person2#: Only old women like that.
#Person1#: Maybe you should ask her what she wants for her birthday.
#Person2#: OK. That's what I can do.

Summary: Steven's thinking about what birthday gift to give Vicky. #Person1# recommends some and finally suggests asking Vicky.


#Person1#: Now I've collected all your personal information.
#Person2#: Then when will you exchange the CD for another one?
#Person1#: After I give the information to the shop manager we will solve your problem. Please don't worry.
#Person2#: But when? Could you tell me the deadline? I don't want to be bothered by it all the time.
#Person1#: Um, I promised the day after tomorrow.
#Person2#: Then I will be here in your shop on that day to get a new CD.
#Person1#: OK, if you have any other questions, please let me know. Or you can call my number anytime.

Summary: #Person2# wants a CD exchange very much and urges #Person1# to give a deadline for the next exchange. #Person1# promises the day after tomorrow.


#Person1#: So Sophie, are you going on holiday with your family this summer?
#Person2#: Yeah, we're going to Florida 2 days after the end of the term. We finish this term on June twenty eighth right?
#Person1#: That's right. So who's going?
#Person2#: Mom and dad, obviously, but my sisters, not coming this year. Just my little brother.
#Person1#: Oh well, nothing's perfect. What are you doing there?
#Person2#: We're spending a week in Orlando, you know, visiting all the theme parks. Then we're staying in another place near Orlando called the Everglades.
#Person1#: What's that?
#Person2#: It's a kind of Nature Reserve with crocodiles and birds and other animals were going camping.
#Person1#: It sounds really cool. You are so lucky.
#Person2#: I know I can't wait.

Summary: Sophie tells #Person1# about her summer plans. She will go to Florida with her family. They will stay in Orlando and the Everglades.


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

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are reading an interesting book that contains pictures of interesting buildings from all over the world, with brief descriptions of how they were built, their purposes, and so on. They discuss the shapes of the buildings.


#Person1#: I don't understand why I'm being arrested.
#Person2#: You have a warrant.
#Person1#: A warrant for what?
#Person2#: Apparently, you have a bench warrant.
#Person1#: What does that mean?
#Person2#: You missed a court appearance.
#Person1#: I wasn't aware that I had to go to court.
#Person2#: I don't know what to tell you.
#Person1#: I don't find this fair.
#Person2#: Life isn't fair.
#Person1#: Don't I have any rights?
#Person2#: You have the right to remain silent.

Summary: #Person2# arrests #Person1# because #Person1# missed a court appearance unknowingly. #Person1# thinks it unfair.