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knkarthick

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dialogsum

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train_700

#Person1#: Good evening, sir. What's your pleasure? #Person2#: Give me a shot of whisky and soda. #Person1#: With or without ice, sir? #Person2#: Certainly without ice. Ice will spoil the taste. #Person1#: Would you like to say 'when', please, sir. ( Pouring soda ) #Person2#: Whoa, when. #Person1#: Enjoy your drink, sir.

#Person2# wants a shot of whisky and soda without ice. #Person1# asks him to say 'when'.

drink

train_701

#Person1#: I'm sorry, Julia! I can't get home early this evening. #Person2#: What? But today is my birthday! #Person1#: I know, darling. But I do have a lot of work to do, hope you can understand me. #Person2#: But Steven, why don't you ask for a leave? . . . Steven, why don't you speak? Are you still there? #Person1#: Hello, Julia? I can't hear you clearly. I'm afraid the line is out of order. Okay, B, listen! How about I hang up now and call you back later? #Person2#: Okay! Bye!

Steven tells Julia he can't get home early for her birthday. She suggests him asking for a leave. He will call her back later.

birthday

train_702

#Person1#: Are you looking for part time or full time employment? #Person2#: To start with I would like something part time with the hope that it can develop into something full time. #Person1#: So you are interested in being with a company for the long term? #Person2#: Yes, that's right. I like this city very much and would like to make my home here. #Person1#: Here is an application. Please fill it out to the best of your ability. Did you bring a resume and references? #Person2#: Yes, I did. I have them here. #Person1#: Keep them until you ready to give me the application and you can turn them all in at once. #Person2#: Thank you very much. This should only take me a few minutes.

#Person2# would like to start with something part-time that can develop into full time. #Person1# asks #Person2# to fill out an application and turn it in with a resume and references.

employment

train_703

#Person1#: Hello! I'd like to get busy on my computer, but I need some broadband. #Person2#: There's an Ethernet cable in your room. Just plug it into the back of your laptop. #Person1#: Uh-oh! I can't use Ethernet. My computer is wireless only. #Person2#: That's okay. I can tell you about some alternatives we have. #Person1#: Any alternative that works will be great. #Person2#: Well, there's our computer lab on the first floor. #Person1#: That sounds good. What's the charge? #Person2#: The lab and the computers are no charge, but you have to pay for whatever you print. #Person1#: That sounds good. Now, how about the other alternatives? #Person2#: Of course. Our lobby is set up for wireless, so just bring your computer down here. #Person1#: Use my laptop in the lobby? That's great! Now, if I need to print something there? #Person2#: They plan to install a printer here. But until then, you'll have to use the lab.

#Person1# needs some broadband. #Person2# gives some alternatives, such as use the computer lab or the computer in the lobby which is set up for wireless.

computer

train_704

#Person1#: Have you seen the news today? #Person2#: Not yet. What happened? #Person1#: Did you know there was a blackout last night? #Person2#: Yes, I heard the lights were out all night. #Person1#: Well, some people decided to loot last night. #Person2#: I don't understand. #Person1#: They took advantage of the blackout. #Person2#: They really started looting? #Person1#: Yes, apparently four stores were broken into. #Person2#: Did the looters get caught? #Person1#: There was no evidence of who did it. #Person2#: Hopefully we won't have any more blackouts.

#Person1# tells #Person2# some people looted during the blackout last night. #Person2# hopes there won't be more blackouts.

blackout

train_705

#Person1#: The weather is terrible. #Person2#: Yes. It was sunny and warm yesterday but the wind is really blowing hard now. #Person1#: I'm wearing my heavy jacket. #Person2#: I'm going to put on more clothes, too. #Person1#: Will it snow today? #Person2#: I don't know. Do you like snowing? #Person1#: Yes, when it snows, every where is white. It's very beautiful. #Person2#: You can read the newspaper. Maybe it will tell you whether it will snow or not. #Person1#: Good idea.

#Person1# and #Person2# think the weather is terrible and decide to wear more clothes. #Person2# suggests #Person1# reading the newspaper to know whether it will snow or not.

weather

train_706

#Person1#: Hey Sarah, I'm having some trouble finding an apartment. Can you help me look at some listings online? #Person2#: Sure. What kind of apartment are you looking for? #Person1#: Well, it has to be cheap. I don't want a really expensive apartment. #Person2#: OK. Would you like to live in a studio? #Person1#: Sure, a studio would be fine.

#Person1# asks Sarah to help #Person1# find a cheap apartment. She suggests #Person1# living in a studio.

apartment

train_707

#Person1#: Hi, Sue. How's it going? #Person2#: Oh, hi, Frank, just fine. How are your classes? #Person1#: Pretty good. I'm glad this is my last term here, though. #Person2#: Why is that? I thought you were enjoying school. #Person1#: I was. But now I'm getting tired of it. I'm ready for the real world. #Person2#: What are you planning to do when you graduate? #Person1#: First, I want to get a job as a computer programmer, and then after five years or so, I'd like to start my own business. #Person2#: Sounds good. I still have three terms to go until I'm done. #Person1#: You'll make it for sure. Well, see you later. #Person2#: Bye!

Frank is glad this is his last term. He wants to get a job and start his own business. Sue still has three terms to go.

school

train_708

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

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

roommate

train_709

#Person1#: Can I have breakfast in my room? #Person2#: Certainly, madam. Breakfast is served in your room from 7 o'clock until 9. Here's the menu. #Person1#: I'd like to have Chinese food. #Person2#: Yes, madam. And at what time would you like it? #Person1#: About eight o'clock, I think. #Person2#: Very good, madam. And what kind of fruit juice would you like? #Person1#: I'd like orange, please. #Person2#: Orange juice. And would you prefer tea or milk? #Person1#: Tea, please. #Person2#: Thank you very much. Good night.

#Person1# tells #Person2# she would like to have Chinese food, orange juice, and tea in her room at eight o'clock.

breakfast

train_710

#Person1#: Hello, Jack! Do you think you can give me a lift to the station? I must go there to pick my sister. #Person2#: I'm terribly sorry, but I can't. I have to be at work by 8:30. I can call you a taxi, though.

Jack can't give #Person1# a lift to the station. He can call #Person1# a taxi.

transportation

train_711

#Person1#: Hello, I have just seen your advertisement. You haven't rented it out yet, have you? #Person2#: No, I haven't. Come in and have a look. #Person1#: Thank you. #Person2#: It's just a simple room. My son used to live in it. Now he is grown and long gone, and my husband died last year. So I thought maybe I'd take in a roomer. #Person1#: A nice, quiet house. That's what I'm looking for. #Person2#: This way, Sir. #Person1#: Oh, this is a very pleasant room. How much is the rent? #Person2#: Fifty dollars a week. I won't charge you anything for electricity, gas and heat. Oh, yes, you can use the kitchen and refrigerator too. #Person1#: Well, I like this place very much. But, you know, my government doesn't give me much money. So you know what I mean. #Person2#: Oh, yes. You seem like a very nice young man. What about $ 40? #Person1#: That's good, Mrs. ... #Person2#: Price. Susan Price. #Person1#: My name is Wang Li. I've just come from China to study at the university. #Person2#: Oh, isn't that lovely? #Person1#: May I move in tomorrow morning. Mrs. Price. #Person2#: Fine. I'll be expecting you around ten. If you don't mind, I'd like to have the first two weeks' rent in advance. #Person1#: OK. I'll give it to you tomorrow morning. See you tomorrow.

Wang Li wants to rent the room. Susan Price and she finally agree that the rent is $40 per week. He will move in tomorrow morning.

room

train_712

#Person1#: Can we make you an offer? We would like to run the campaign for four extra weeks. #Person2#: Well, can we summarize the problem from my point of view? First of all, the campaign was late. It missed two important trade affairs. The ads also did not appear into key magazines. As a result, the campaign failed. Do you accept that summary of what happened? #Person1#: Well, the delay wasn't entirely our fault. You did in fact make late changes to the specifications of the advertisements. #Person2#: Uh, actually, you were late with the initial proposals so you have very little time and in fact, we only asked for small changes. #Person1#: Well whatever, can we repeat our offer to run the campaign for 4 extra weeks? #Person2#: That's not really the point. The campaign missed two key trade affairs. Because of this, we are asking you either to repeat the campaign next year for free, or we only pay 50% of the fee for this year. #Person1#: Could we suggest a 20% reduction to the fee together with the four week sustention to the campaign. #Person2#: We are not happy. We lost business. #Person1#: I think we both made mistakes. The responsibility is on both sides. #Person2#: Ok, let's suggest a new solution. How about a 40% cut in fee, or a free repeat campaign? #Person1#: Well, let's take a break, we're not getting very far. Perhaps we should think about this.

#Person1# and #Person2# are talking about a fail campaign. #Person2# asks either to repeat the campaign next year for free or 50% reduction of the fee. #Person1# suggests a 20% reduction together with the four-week sustention. They will take a break and find a new solution.

campaign

train_713

#Person1#: Excuse me. Would you please make a suit with this material? #Person2#: Sure. May I take your measurements? #Person1#: Please don't make it too tight. This is for autumn wear, so make sure you allow for a cardigan underneath. #Person2#: I see, sir. Can you come back for a fitting on the 10th, that's in a week's time? #Person1#: The 10th? I'm sorry, but you see I'm going to attend an international conference on the 11th. Could you have the suit ready by the 8th, or at the latest, the 9th? #Person2#: Well, a business suit usually takes ten days' time. But in your case, we'll try to have it ready sooner. How about coming for your fitting on the 8th? Then your suit will be ready for you on the 10th? #Person1#: That's fine, thank you.

#Person1# asks #Person2# to make a suit. #Person1# needs it ready at the latest by the 9th. #Person2# suggests #Person1# coming for a fitting on the 8th and the suit will be ready on the 10th.

suit

train_714

#Person1#: what happened? Why didn't he win? #Person2#: didn't you hear? He was disqualified. #Person1#: how did that happen? He's so talented! I thought he had a great chance of winning a gold medal! #Person2#: if he didn't have any drug problems, he would have won. #Person1#: what? What kind of drugs was he using? #Person2#: he was taking steroids to make him stronger and faster. #Person1#: I thought that all athletes were supposed to be regularly tested for drugs. #Person2#: they are. The reason why they didn't disqualify him until after the race is because the results from the text only came back afterwards. #Person1#: that's so disappointing. I don't know why top athletes would feel the need to take drugs. #Person2#: I don't think it's right, but I can understand why they might. Imagine how much pressure there would be to win for your country! #Person1#: regardless of how much pressure you're under, there's never a good reason to take drugs. #Person2#: I agree. Hopefully with the new regulations, fewer athletes will try to cheat with drugs. #Person1#: let's hope so.

#Person2# tells #Person1# the athlete was disqualified for taking drugs. #Person1# thinks it's disappointing. They hope with the new regulations, fewer athletes will try to cheat with drugs.

athlete

train_715

#Person1#: Hi, Cindy. I thought I'd missed you. #Person2#: Oh, I am very sorry, Hans. Thank you for waiting for me. You must have been here a long time already. #Person1#: It's all right. #Person2#: I was caught in the heavy rain, or I would have come earlier. I am sorry I kept you waiting. #Person1#: I was in a comfortable place, so really, it's no problem. I am happy to see you. Did the rain hold you up long? #Person2#: Yes. When I came out of the subway, it was raining cats and dogs. And I forgot my umbrella. So I had to wait for the rain to let up. #Person1#: I totally understand.

Cindy was caught in the heavy rain so she kept Hans waiting for a long time. Hans understands her.

appointment

train_716

#Person1#: You don't look too well. Maybe you should take the day off from work. #Person2#: I couldn't do that. I have an important meeting to go to today. #Person1#: Do you feel ok? #Person2#: Not really. After a 12-hour flight, I've got jetlag, and on top of that, I think I've also got the flu. #Person1#: Why don't you call your secretary and tell her to reschedule the meeting? You should really get some rest or you'll end up feeling even worse than you do now. #Person2#: Could you feel my forehead and check to see if I have a fever? #Person1#: You're really hot. Let me get you some Tylenol to bring the fever down. #Person2#: Ok. I'll stay home this morning and rest, but if I feel better in the afternoon, I'm going to the meeting. #Person1#: Zach, what's that on your arm? #Person2#: I don't know. It looks a bit red, but I'm sure it's nothing. #Person1#: It looks like you have a red rash all over you! Are you allergic to anything? #Person2#: Just cats, but I don't think I was near any cats in the last couple of weeks. #Person1#: I completely forgot about your cat allergy. I took care of a cat for my friend here a few days ago. Oh no. we'd better go to the doctor and get some medicine. Let's go. #Person2#: Shouldn't we make an appointment first? #Person1#: We sould, but let's just go and see if there's an opening now before it gets worse. #Person2#: Whatever you say. I just want to get to my meeting!

Zach has a fever, but he insists on going to an important meeting. #Person1# finds he has a red rash all over him and remembers he has a cat allergy. #Person1# suggests they go to the doctor and get some medicine, but Zach still wants to go to the meeting.

cat allergy

train_717

#Person1#: Please show me the menu, Miss. #Person2#: Of course. Here you are. Can I take your order now? #Person1#: Yes. I'd like an Italian soup to start with and then some fried noodles. #Person2#: All right. Can I serve you anything else? #Person1#: Yes, I'd like another cup of coffee afterwards. Make it hot, please. #Person2#: You've got it, sir.

#Person1# orders an Italian soup, some fried noodles, and coffee with #Person2#'s help.

order

train_718

#Person1#: Hey, let me show you the place. Eh, here's the living room. #Person2#: Oh, it looks like you could use a new carpet. #Person1#: Well, I've had a few problems with some former roommates. I know it needs to be cleaned. But I just don't have the money to do it right now. #Person2#: Oh, and what about the kitchen? #Person1#: Well, the refrigerator door is broken a little bit, and it won't shut all the way, but it isn't that bad. #Person2#: How about the bathroom? #Person1#: Eh, the window needs fixing. #Person2#: Hey, I think I've seen enough. I can't believe you've survived under these conditions.

#Person1# shows #Person2# around the house and #Person2# is not satisfied with the bad conditions.

house

train_719

#Person1#: Hi, Maggie. I saw your painting in the end of year school art exhibition that all the parents went to. It was great. #Person2#: Well, our art teacher seemed really pleased with it, but I'm not sure what the parents thought about. #Person1#: Oh, don't worry. I only heard them saying good things about it. #Person2#: Hmm...He probably didn't notice that I hadn't used the right colors. #Person1#: I don't think anyone noticed. #Person2#: No, but I did. But it was too late to do anything about it. Well, next time I'll do something better hopefully.

#Person1# saw Maggie's painting and thinks it was great, but Maggie worries that she didn't use the right colors and hopes she'll do something better next time.

painting

train_720

#Person1#: Hi. My name's Mary Jackson and I have a friend Susan, whose son Bobby is taking gymnastic lessons from you. She suggested I call you. #Person2#: OK. Will the lessons be for yourself or a child? #Person1#: They will be for myself. My son's only 3 and I'd like him to start taking lessons next year. #Person2#: Very well. Do you like sports or do you have another reason for taking up lessons? #Person1#: I like sports. #Person2#: Then what would you like to learn? #Person1#: I'd like to learn how to be a gymnasts. I also want to help my son study gymnastics. #Person2#: Good. We'll fix a date then. #Person1#: Thank you. How about on the weekends? Can you spare some time? #Person2#: OK. I'll just check my calendar and we'll call you later when I know for certain. Bye.

Mary Jackson calls #Person2# to take gymnastic lessons for herself. #Person2# will call her later to fix a date.

gymnastic lessons

train_721

#Person1#: Good news. #Person2#: What's it? #Person1#: The IOC President Thomas Bach announced the winner just now. #Person2#: What winner? #Person1#: Sally Bookworm. Beijing's got the right to host the twenty fourth Winter Olympic Games in 2022. #Person2#: That's really good news. Tell me something further please. #Person1#: Beijing and it's cold bitter Zhangjiakou 144 nods against all Marty's 40 in the voting becoming the first city to host both summer and winter Olympics. #Person2#: Wonderful. I'll do something for the Winter Olympic Games from now on.

#Person1# tells #Person2# Beijing's got the right to host the twenty-fourth Winter Olympic Games in 2022. #Person2# thinks it's good news.

Winter Olympic Games

train_722

#Person1#: Lucy, I heard that you got a part-time job. Is that true? #Person2#: Yes Jack, I am working as a guide in our cities museum. I explained basic details about pictures, items and the like to the visitors. #Person1#: That sounds like a hard job. You must have to learn a lot about history. #Person2#: I do, but that's ok. I like reading about the past, history helps us to know what to do in our present situation. I love the job. #Person1#: You will learn a lot in this job. #Person2#: And most importantly, I can get some good work experience.

Lucy tells Jack she is working as a guide in their cities museum and she loves the job.

job

train_723

#Person1#: Look at you, you are so cute. Hey, does this guy have a name? #Person2#: Yes, that's Hopper. We call him that because of how he likes to jump around and eat a lot of carrots. #Person1#: He seems to be getting along with the other animals, too. #Person2#: All of the animals you see here have been rescued, and in most cases, they are separated from their mothers. They're all like brothers and sisters. #Person1#: I have a dog and a cat at home. Do you think it would be too stressful for him? #Person2#: Not at all. As long as your animals are well trained, it shouldn't be a problem. You should get a cage for him, though. #Person1#: Is he healthy? Or does he need to be taken to an animal doctor first? #Person2#: He's 100% healthy. #Person1#: I'll take him. Come here, Hopper.

#Person1# and #Person2# are talking about Hopper who is a rescued animal. #Person2# tells #Person1# he is 100% healthy and #Person1# will take him.

animals

train_724

#Person1#: Good afternoon, I would like to speak with the manager, please. #Person2#: Why? What's your problem? #Person1#: Well, I just picked up a TV at your store yesterday afternoon. And when I was taking it out of the car. It sort of accidentally fell. It looks ok. But the picture is pretty unclear. Do you think I can have someone look at it or get it changed? #Person2#: Ok, I will talk to the manager about it right now, please wait a moment. #Person1#: Ok, thank you. #Person2#: Well, we can have someone repair it for you, but as it was caused by you. I'm afraid you have to pay for half of the repair cost and we will pay the other half #Person1#: That will be fine. Thank you.

#Person2# can have someone repair #Person1#'s TV but #Person1# has to pay for half of the repair cost because it was caused by #Person1#. #Person1# agrees.

repair

train_725

#Person1#: Anna, your wedding day is this weekend. Are you ready? #Person2#: Yeah, I think so, except for one thing. I'm supposed to wear some special things to the wedding for good luck. #Person1#: I've thought you were planning to wear a wedding dress. #Person2#: I am of course, but it says that to have a happy marriage, I have to wear something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. #Person1#: I've never heard about that. So what are you going to wear? #Person2#: Well, for something old, I'm wearing my grandmother's diamond ring. And my wedding dresse is something new and I'm wearing blue flowers in my hair. #Person1#: OK. That's something old, new, and blue. You still need something borrowed. #Person2#: Yeah, I just don't know what though. #Person1#: Hey! How 'bout this? It's my lucky coin. I always wear it inside my shoe when I need good luck. You can borrow it and put it in your shoe during the wedding. #Person2#: Oh, thanks. Now I'm ready for my wedding day.

Anna tells #Person1# she needs to wear something special for her wedding. She's prepared everthing except something borrowed. And #Person1# lends her #Person1#'s lucky coin.

wedding day

train_726

#Person1#: Royal Hotel, can I help you? #Person2#: Yes. I urgently need a room for tomorrow night, and do you have any vacancies? #Person1#: Yes, we have. What kind of room would you like? #Person2#: I'd like a suite with an ocean view, please. #Person1#: No problem, sir.

#Person1# helps #Person2# book a suite for tomorrow night.

booking a room

train_727

#Person1#: Francis, you have done an outstanding work in the past six months. In view of your achievement, I trust you ' re now indispensable part of our company and you deserve an officer director title. #Person2#: I am so happy to know that I could make some contribution to our company. #Person1#: This title does not only give you a raising pay-check, but also increase responsibilities. Congratulations, and hope the best for you. #Person2#: Thank you, I will be doing my best.

#Person2# praises Francis's performances and gives the title of officer director to him.

promotion

train_728

#Person1#: John, I ' d like you to meet Charles Brown, our new manager at the airport. #Person2#: Yes, certainly. How can I recognize him? #Person1#: He is short, well-built, and he ' s got light blond hair. #Person2#: Is there anything else? #Person1#: He has a mustache, if I remember correctly, and a light complexion. #Person2#: How old is he? #Person1#: He is in his late thirties. #Person2#: Well. I shouldn ' t have any trouble recognizing him. What time does his flight arrive? #Person1#: At 2 thirty.

#Person1# asks John to meet Charles Brown at the airport and tells him how to recognize Brown.

airport pickup

train_729

#Person1#: Can you tell that I ' m excited? #Person2#: What are you excited about? #Person1#: I voted today. #Person2#: Was this your first time? #Person1#: I just turned 18 a month ago. #Person2#: You ' re lucky. #Person1#: What do you mean? #Person2#: Because you turned 18 in an election year. #Person1#: I didn ' t even think of that. #Person2#: You didn ' t? #Person1#: I really didn ' t, but I ' m still excited. #Person2#: You should be, because you ' re a part of history.

#Person1# is excited about voting and #Person2# thinks #Person1# is lucky to turn 18 in an election year.

voting rights

train_730

#Person1#: Hello. Can you tell me what the procedures of applying for a job are? #Person2#: Yes, of course. There are many steps. You can apply for the job on the Internet and then send your resume to the e-mail address of the company. And wail the feedback of the company. #Person1#: What is the qualification needed by the position? #Person2#: You must have over 2 years'experience first.

#Person2# tells #Person1# the procedures of applying for a job and the qualification needed.

job-applying procedure

train_731

#Person1#: Can I still catch T107 for Xiamen? #Person2#: Sorry, sir. The train has already left. #Person1#: That's too bad. Can I take another train? #Person2#: Yes. Your ticket is valid for three days. #Person1#: That's great! I will take the next train. #Person2#: You have to have your ticket checked. #Person1#: Shall I pay extra charge? #Person2#: No extra charge at all. But your berth will be invalid.

#Person1# missed a train but #Person2# tells him he can take another train without extra charge.

catch the train

train_732

#Person1#: From the looks of this house from the outside, I don't really think that I want to go inside. #Person2#: From here, it does look like it could use a little work. Let's see what the interior looks like. #Person1#: I am not impressed by the interior of this house. #Person2#: Sometimes all a place needs is a little bit of cleaning and some fresh paint. #Person1#: With so few windows, how can you even see what the problems are? #Person2#: I think that we should check out the kitchen. It is listed as roomy and spacious. #Person1#: Where are you supposed to store things without any cabinet space? #Person2#: The picture in the listing shows a lovely master suite. I think that we should go look at it since we are here. #Person1#: Is there a dead animal somewhere in here? #Person2#: Well, I think that it is pretty safe to say that this is not the house for you.

#Person2# advises to see the interior look of the house but #Person1# doesn't like the setting and decoration. #Person2# thinks that it's not the house for #Person1#.

house selection

train_733

#Person1#: I've heard that you are going to call for a tender. What kind of goods would you like to buy? #Person2#: Yes, we're ready to start the invitation to tender. You're well informed. We'd like to build new factory. #Person1#: When do you open the tender? And where? #Person2#: We intend to open the tender at first next month in Beijing. #Person1#: And when is the closing date? #Person2#: The time period is set on June 29th. #Person1#: Could you please tell me something more about the conditions for the tender? #Person2#: All right. The area of the factory buildings is around 8, 000 square meters. You can read the details in the invitations which will be sent tomorrow. #Person1#: Thank you for your information. #Person2#: You're welcome. #Person1#: I'm sorry to have taken up too much of your time. #Person2#: It doesn't matter. We'll be in touch. #Person1#: Okay, bye! #Person2#: Bye!

#Person2# calls for a tender to build a new factory. #Person1# asks #Person2# when and where to open the tender, and the conditions for the tender.

tender

train_734

#Person1#: Hello. I am calling about the apartment you advertised. #Person2#: Yes, what kind of apartment are you interested in? #Person1#: I am interested in one-bedroom. Do you have any available? #Person2#: Yes, I have one. When you need it? #Person1#: Sometime around next week. What can you tell me about this apartment? #Person2#: Well, It's a one-bedroom apartment. The monthly rent at 650 dollars and a 300 dollars security deposit. You pay electricity only. Gas and water is included. Both the heat and stove are gas. Let me see, what else. . . Oh, you'll be assigned a sheltered parking space at no extra charge. And that's probably it. #Person1#: Sounds good. May I come over tomorrow to take a look? #Person2#: Sure. What time would you like to come? #Person1#: How about 10 am? #Person2#: Good, May I have your name, please? #Person1#: My name is Blanca. #Person2#: Thanks for calling, Blanca. I'll see you tomorrow.

#Person2# recommends a one-bedroom apartment and introduces some information about the apartment to Blanca. Blanca is satisfied and makes an appointment to take a look.

apartment hunting

train_735

#Person1#: Nice to see you ; how have you been feeling lately? #Person2#: I have been feeling great, Dr. Smith. #Person1#: I am happy that you have decided to come in for your annual physical. #Person2#: Yes, I am going on a cross-country bike ride on vacation and want to make sure that I don't have any problems. #Person1#: We are going to look at your heart and lungs, do a few blood tests, and see that your eyes, ears, and nose are all working as they should. #Person2#: I'Ve been having trouble with congestion in my chest. Can you give me some tests for that? #Person1#: I can do a chest X-ray to check for congestion. #Person2#: That would be great. What is the blood test for? #Person1#: The blood test is for cholesterol, white blood cell count, and blood sugar. #Person2#: I have been feeling great. I don't imagine that any of my tests will turn out badly.

#Person1# comes to do annual physical and Dr. Smith introduces the checklist. #Person1# asks him to give some tests for congestion. Dr. Smith agrees and explains what's the blood test for.

annual physical

train_736

#Person1#: Some of them seem to be of the latest style. Now I'Ve a feeling that we can do a lot of trade in this line. We wish to establish relations with you. #Person2#: Your desire coincides with ours. #Person1#: Concerning our financial position, credit standing and trade reputation, you may refer to Bank of Hong Kong, or to our local Chamber of Commerce or inquiry agencies. #Person2#: Thank you for your information. As you know, our corporation is a state-operated one. We always trade with foreign countries on the basis of equality and mu - dual benefit. Establishing business relations between us will be to our mutual benefit. I have no doubt that it will bring about closer ties between us. #Person1#: That sounds interesting. I'll send a fax home. As soon as I receive a definite answer, I'll make a specific inquiry. #Person2#: We'll then make an offer as soon as possible. I hope a lot of business will be conducted between us. #Person1#: So do I.

#Person1# wants to establish business relations with #Person2#'s cooperation. #Person2# thinks that will be to their mutual benefits, and #Person1# will send a fax home to wait for a definite answer.

establishing business relations

train_737

#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.

#Person1# talks about the plan to resign because of the low salary and #Person1#'s worry about the future. #Person2# suggests #Person1# should think twice before the act.

resign

train_738

#Person1#: You'd better prepare for the examination. #Person2#: I don't think the exam will be very hard. #Person1#: You should change your attitude, or you will not pass the course. #Person2#: Maybe you're right. I have been too lazy lately.

#Person1# suggests #Person2# should prepare for the examination.

examnination preparation

train_739

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

#Person1# asks Chuck his growing-up place and major. Now Chuck is a hairdresser.

personal experiences

train_740

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

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

airport pickup

train_741

#Person1#: Hey! Fred, you are five minutes earlier than me today. Usually, you don't. #Person2#: Hurry! It is time for me to steal something. #Person1#: What's your meaning? #Person2#: I am stealing vegetables at the Happy Farm. #Person1#: You are a thief? #Person2#: No, no. I mean stealing vegetables on Internet is very popular now. Many white collars join in this game and have a lot of fun by stealing others'vegetables. #Person1#: You mean it is a still virtual game. Your friends steal your vegetables time and time again, and you take theirs as well, right? #Person2#: You got what I meant. Perhaps, what I steal are not vegetables, but loneliness. #Person1#: Don't be addicted to the game. It's not good for your job.

Fred is stealing vegetables at the Happy Farm, and #Person2# advises him not to be addicted to the virtual game.

Internet game

train_742

#Person1#: Herman, why are you so excited? #Person2#: I have met a beautiful girl. #Person1#: Have you fallen in love? #Person2#: Yes. At first sight. #Person1#: Can you describe the situation at that time? #Person2#: At that time her back was ramrod straight as she sailed by, her tone is best, neither over-passionate, nor too cold. #Person1#: What's her outlook? #Person2#: She was pretty, her hair was the color of rich dark chocolate, waving gently to her shoulders. Her complexion was clear and golden.

Herman has fallen in love with a girl at first sight and he described her outlook to #Person2#.

fall in love

train_743

#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!

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

championship match

train_744

#Person1#: Mom, happy Mother's Day! A necklace for you. #Person2#: What a surprise! This is the best present I've ever received. #Person1#: Thank you for your love and care over the years. I love you so much. #Person2#: I love you, too. #Person1#: How about a dinner tonight? My treat. #Person2#: Actually, I prefer to eat at home, and then we'll have more time to have a chat. #Person1#: All right. Let me prepare the supper.

#Person1# sends a necklace to Mom on Mother's Day and they'll have dinner at home.

birthday gift

train_745

#Person1#: You seem to like her very much, don't you? #Person2#: I can't deny that. She is so beautiful that I fell in love with her at the first sight. I wish I knew more about her. #Person1#: But I heard that she had a three-year-old girl. #Person2#: I cannot belive that. It must be cooked up by someone.

#Person2# admits loving her, but #Person1# says she has a three-year-old girl.

beautiful woman

train_746

#Person1#: Lucy, you're back. How was your first day of school? #Person2#: It was great. I had a really good time. #Person1#: What classes did you have? #Person2#: Well, I had English from 9 o'clock to 11 o'clock, art from 12 o'clock to 2 o'clock, and math from 2 o'clock to 4 o'clock. #Person1#: What do you think about the teachers? #Person2#: To be honest, I liked all of them, except for the math teacher. Though he must be quite young, he seem like an old person. He's so boring! #Person1#: That's too bad. How was your English teacher? #Person2#: She was great. In today's class, she gave us a lecture on how to be a good student. She told us not to arm for exams, and to pay more attention on communicating than memorizing. #Person1#: Where is she from? #Person2#: She said that she's from a small town in the middle of America. #Person1#: Were you able to understand everything that she said? #Person2#: Not everything, but nearly. She speaks very clearly and doesn't use very complex words so that it is easy for us to understand her. #Person1#: She sounds like a good teacher. Do you think you'll pass her class? #Person2#: Yes. . . with flying colors! #Person1#: What does that mean? #Person2#: It's a new phrase that she taught us today. It means that I will not only pass the class, but I will do extremely well! #Person1#: If you like the class this much already, I'm sure you will. #Person2#: I hope so. #Person1#: did she give you any homework? #Person2#: not today. She said she wanted us to relax tonight instead of doing homework, #Person1#: no wonder you like the class so much.

Lucy tells #Person2# her first day of school. She has English, art, and math classes. She doesn't like her math teacher, but she likes English teacher. Lucy believes she can pass the English class with flying colors, which is a new phrase that she learned today.

school day

train_747

#Person1#: Where did you go yesterday? #Person2#: I went to play tennis in the public park. #Person1#: How often do you play tennis? #Person2#: Twice a week. How about you? #Person1#: I seldom play tennis. I prefer football and basketball. #Person2#: But it is very difficult to gather a team of players together. #Person1#: I usually play with my schoolmates. #Person2#: Do you like watching football matches? #Person1#: Yes, I went to the Than He Sports Center for a football match last Sunday. #Person2#: Oh, I watched it on television. It was an exciting match.

#Person2# plays tennis twice a week. #Person1# prefers football and basketball and usually plays with schoolmates.

sports

train_748

#Person1#: Hi. I'm looking for some good deals on produce. #Person2#: You might want to try the mangoes. #Person1#: Can you describe a mango to me? #Person2#: It's a fruit a little smaller than a grapefruit. It has a big seed in it. #Person1#: Do I eat the seed? #Person2#: Maybe some animals eat the seed, but humans don't. You'd have to soak it for 10 years. #Person1#: What's the price of these mangoes? #Person2#: Today you get a 50 - percent discount. They're only $ 1 each. #Person1#: Tell me what they taste like. #Person2#: Their flesh is soft and juicy. It has a citrus taste. It's sweet. #Person1#: Do I need to buy them ripe, or will they ripen at home? #Person2#: Just press into it gently with your thumb. If it feels soft, it's ready to eat. #Person1#: Where do mangoes come from? #Person2#: These are from Guatemala, but we're going to start getting mangoes from India.

#Person2# describes the shape, price, taste of mangoes to #Person1#. #Person2# tells #Person1# if the ones feel soft when pressed, they are ready to eat.

describe mangoes

train_749

#Person1#: My name is Steven Smith and I'm calling to cancel my plane ticket. #Person2#: When was your reservation? #Person1#: It's 7 p. m. today. #Person2#: Would you mind telling me the reason? #Person1#: I need to continue to deal with my business. I haven't finished it yet. #Person2#: Oh, I see. Would you like me to reschedule you for another time? #Person1#: No. Thank you. #Person2#: But you have to pay the fee for refund. #Person1#: OK. I will pay it by my bank card.

#Person2# helps Steven cancel the plane ticket and Steven has to pay the fee for the refund.

plane ticket cancellation

train_750

#Person1#: My pal, you are so nervous recently. You don't need to be like that. #Person2#: I am worried about that Arden will display all my drawbacks in the performance review. That will be embarrassing. #Person1#: Just use your head. If you were definitely making some big mistakes, you would be informed. #Person2#: I had a nightmare last night and I dreamt Arden told me that my performance fell short of his expectation. I was terrified to wake up after hearing that. #Person1#: That is merely a dream. Remember, there is always room for us to have further improvement. I think we did the good job in the whole period. #Person2#: I know what you are talking about. The performance evaluation process starts from the day we're hired. There is no surprise during the actual review.

#Person2# is nervous about the performance evaluation from Arden. #Person1# comforts #Person2# and thinks they did a good job in the whole period.

performance evalustion

train_751

#Person1#: Excuse me, sir. I've made a tough decision and here is my resignation. #Person2#: I am sorry to hear that. Why do you want to quit? #Person1#: I'm sorry to bring up my resignation at this moment, but I've decided to study abroad. #Person2#: All right. Welcome back anytime. #Person1#: Thank you, sir. I'd like to say that I'Ve really enjoyed working with you. However, I think it's about time for me to leave. #Person2#: I am glad to work with you, too. Good luck! #Person1#: Thank you.

#Person1# brings up the resignation to #Person2# because #Person1# has decided to study abroad.

resign

train_752

#Person1#: I called about that ad we saw in the paper. #Person2#: For the construction site manager? #Person1#: That's the one. #Person2#: What happened? #Person1#: You were right. It was from a headhunter. She wouldn't tell me anything without a contract. #Person2#: Well, no surprise there. #Person1#: No! Not at all. But, I did find out they have more than one position with different clients, so at least one would probably work. #Person2#: Great, so are you going to sign a contract with them? #Person1#: I'm going there tomorrow. #Person2#: Great. Good luck.

#Person1# tells #Person2# that #Person1# is going to sign a contract after calling a construction site manager.

job contract

train_753

#Person1#: Congratulations, Vivian. You won the grand prize, again. #Person2#: Isn't it just great! I just knew I'd win! #Person1#: You did? How? Did you wear red underwear again this year? #Person2#: Not only that! #Person1#: Tell me! Tell me! What's your secret? ! #Person2#: OK, OK. I'll whisper it to you, but you have to promise not to tell anyone! #Person1#: What? ! You did that? ? !!!

Vivian will tell #Person1# her secret to win the grand prize.

winning prize secret

train_754

#Person1#: What's the plot of your new movie? #Person2#: It's a story about a policemen who is investigating a series of strange murders. I play the part of the detective. He has to catch the killer, but there's very little evidence. It's a psychological th #Person1#: Did you enjoy making the movie? We heard stories of disagreement with other actors and with the director. #Person2#: I have had disagreement with every director. I'Ve worked with. We'Ve always disagreed in a friendly way and we have always resolved our differences. It was the same when I made this movie. I don't no #Person1#: Critics are not very happy with the movies that you'Ve made recently. Does that bother you? #Person2#: Not at all. The feedback from audience has been great. I care about what they think more than what the critics think. #Person1#: Did you do you own stunts in the movie? #Person2#: I wanted to, but my insurance company wouldn't let me. All of my stunts were done by a stuntman. As you know, I used to do my own stunts, but I'll leave that to the experts in future. #Person1#: Thank you very much for doing this interview. #Person2#: My pleasure. Have you seen the movie yet? #Person1#: Yes. I have. I liked it very much. Like you, I was very impressed with Rachel's performance in the movie. She's going to be a star.

#Person2# interviews #Person1# about the new movie. #Person1# tells the plot of the movie and how #Person1# resolves differences with others. #Person1# cares what the audience thinks than critics. #Person1#'s stunts are all done by a stuntman.

movie

train_755

#Person1#: Look at this. This magazine has some guidelines for having a healthy diet. #Person2#: When you have finished it, I'd like to see that. I've been thinking about what I am eating recently. I want to get some more ideas about nutrition and good health. #Person1#: I've noticed that you aren't eating much junk food and are avoiding food with too much fat. I know this diet is healthy, but... #Person2#: What are you thinking? Isn't this diet very tasty or satisfying? #Person1#: No, I don't think it's tasty but I know it is important to have healthy food to keep fit. #Person2#: Following the principles of good nutrition will help us to be healthy and enjoy a better life. #Person1#: But sometimes I'd like to enjoy a piece of rich cheesecake. #Person2#: Having one serving of cheesecake once in a while is not a problem. We just can't have too much and too often.

#Person2# eats a healthy diet and follows the principles of good nutrition. #Person1# thinks the healthy diet isn't tasty but needs them to keep fit.

healthy diet

train_756

#Person1#: Hi, Mason! #Person1#: Oh, hi, Phoebe! #Person2#: Hey, in class today I heard you have a big family. #Person1#: That's right. I've got five brothers and six sisters. #Person2#: Wow! That's pretty big! Are you the eldest or the youngest? #Person1#: Neither. I'm the third eldest.

Mason tells Phoebe that he has a big family.

big family

train_757

#Person1#: Hello, 6632278. #Person2#: Hi, Jack. It's me, Ann. I wasn't at school today. Have we got any homework to do for tomorrow? #Person1#: Let me see. Well, we've got to do the math problems on Page 40 in our textbook. #Person2#: All right. I've got it. #Person1#: Then, we have to go on with our reading for English. The history teacher wants us to read the chapter on the History of London for tomorrow, and write down the most important dates and events in that chapter. #Person2#: Anything else? Ah...ah, music? #Person1#: No, we haven't any music homework, but the science teacher is giving us a test on Friday, so we have to study for that. #Person2#: Oh no. I'm so bad at science. I hate it. Thanks, Jack. #Person1#: Don't mention it. See you tomorrow.

Ann asks Jack today's homework because she wasn't at school. Jack tells her the math, English, history homework, and the upcoming science test.

ask homework

train_758

#Person1#: Welcome to Wanda International Cinema. Can I help you? #Person2#: Umm... I want to know when 'Operation Red Sea' is showing today. #Person1#: There are 6 showings today, one in the morning, another at noon, and then 3 p.m., 6 p.m., 9 p. m., and a midnight showing. #Person2#: OK, I want 5 tickets for the 9 p.m. showing tonight. Are there still 5 tickets available that are seated together? #Person1#: I'm sorry, there are only 3 tickets left. How about the 6 p.m. showing? There are still 7 tickets left for that show. #Person2#: But we have a date for dinner at 5 p.m., so we won't make the beginning of the movie. #Person1#: So would you like to see another movie? 'Detective China Town 2' is very popular, too. #Person2#: No, we all want to see this one. Is there any way that we could buy tickets now for Friday's screens? #Person1#: You can order tickets right now for the next three days. It's Wednesday today. So, that's OK. What time would you like? #Person2#: The 9 p.m. showing. I think there might be more people who want to see the movie on Friday. How many tickets can I buy at one time? #Person1#: The limit for advanced tickets is 10. #Person2#: OK, I'll have 8 tickets for the showing of 'Operation Red Sea'. Are the tickets available? #Person1#: Yes, you're lucky. #Person2#: By the way, when can I pick up the tickets? #Person1#: You can have them right now if you pay for them. #Person2#: Great! Thanks!

#Person2# wants to buy five 'Operation Red Sea' movie tickets for 9 pm tonight, but there aren't enough. #Person1# recommends to change the time to 6 pm or see another movie, but #Person2# refuses. Finally, #Person2# buys eight tickets for Friday with #Person1#'s help.

buying movie tickets

train_759

#Person1#: Hi, David! Mr. Harper has just asked me if you'd finished your project yet. It was supposed to be handed in yesterday. #Person2#: I know. I'm just finishing it now. #Person1#: He wanted to know if we'd done them together. I said no. What's yours on? It took me ages to do mine. #Person2#: Well, I was really lucky. I found this book all about the population in New Zealand cities. #Person1#: Is it good? #Person2#: Yes, it's a great book! I photocopied three chapters. There are some brilliant charts and... #Person1#: What are you going to do with all that? #Person2#: Well, now I'm going to copy these pages and these charts and then I'll finish my project! #Person1#: You're not supposed to just copy the book. #Person2#: Oh! I think Mr. Harper won't know. #Person1#: He will know! He asked us to write a list of all the books we'd used. Remember? That's not the point anyway. #Person2#: What is the point then? #Person1#: Well, the point is that you're supposed to write your own project--you can't copy someone else's writing. #Person2#: Er... er... Well, you're right. Thank you for your reminding me of that.

#Person1# asks David if he has finished the project. David plans to copy the pages and charts to finish his project, and #Person2# reminds him of writing his own project.

doing a project

train_760

#Person1#: Today on mind matters, I'm talking to Dr. Ann Winters, an expert on human memory.. Ann, welcome to the program. Now, I suppose the first question everyone would ask is: what exactly is human memory? #Person2#: Well, like so many easy questions, the answer isn't very simple. Basically, human memory is a compartment in people's brains where they store images rather like the hard disc drive in a computer. And like a hard disc drive, our memories can become infected or even wiped out by accidents. But the comparison breaks down when we consider that we can train our memories to expand and work better which computers can't manage yet. #Person1#: When you talk about memory being infected, do you mean by a disease? #Person2#: Yes. For instance, people suffering from a physiological disease like Alzheimer: forget things that happened in the past. And they also forget how to perform simple tasks like tying their shoelaces. The good news is that brain exercises can help keep the brain young. Research has shown that people who have better educations and more mentally active jobs have a lower risk of developing the disease. #Person1#: And how can someone exercise his brain? By thinking a lot? #Person2#: In a way, yes. But you can also practice using your memory which not only exercises your brain but also improves you ability to remember things. Unfortunately, a lot of devices in modern life are designed to make sure we don't forget things which can make our brains more idle and weaken our memories. #Person1#: Can you give us some examples of how to exercise our memories? #Person2#: Sure, there is a very simple technique, although it works better for some people than for others. When you want to remember something, think of a physical thing it reminds you of. If I want to remember a date from history, let's say, 1066, the date of the Battle of Hastings. I might think that battle reminds me of bottle, so I think of a bottle with the number 1066 written on the label. And I just picture that bottle to myself.

#Person1# have an interview with Dr. Ann Winters, an expert on human memory. Ann first explains that human memory is a compartment in people's brains to store images. She says memory can be infected by diseases or accidents and doing brain exercise can keep the brain young. Then she gives some examples of how to exercise memories.

human memory

train_761

#Person1#: We really were lucky. We got the last available table for two---and we didn't even have a reservation! Did you see the long lines behind us? #Person2#: Yeah, I'm glad that we didn't have to wait long. I'm starving! #Person1#: Let's take a look at the menu so we can order. Do you want to choose an appetizer for us to share? #Person2#: What would you rather have, samosas or poppadoms? #Person1#: I heard that one of their specialities is the samosa. #Person2#: Well, let's get a plate of those then. #Person1#: Sounds good. What are you going to have for your main course? #Person2#: I think I might have a dahl. #Person1#: What's in a dahl? #Person2#: It's got chickpeas and vegetables in a spicy curry sauce with rice. #Person1#: That sounds nice. Do you want to share some kebabs as well? #Person2#: Ok. How about some lamb kebabs? #Person1#: That's my favourite. Do you want to have some wine or beer? #Person2#: I think I'll have a beer. #Person1#: Ok, shall I flag down the waitress? #Person2#: I wouldn't recommend it. I think we should wait until she comes round. #Person1#: You're right. That might seem a bit rude. It's a good thing I've got you with me! #Person2#: What would you do without me?

#Person1# and #Person2# are lucky to get the last table without a reservation. They choose a plate of samosa, some lamb kebab, and drinks to share. #Person2# recommends waiting for the waiter to come.

choose dishes

train_762

#Person1#: I've heard The Hitchhiker would be on next week. I want to see it. #Person2#: Is it horror movie? #Person1#: Yeah, I love horror movies the most. Would you like to go with me next weekend? #Person2#: No way. I will be scared out of my wits. #Person1#: Well, What kind of movies do you like? #Person2#: Er, let me see. Romance, comedy, documentary, action, science fiction, cartoon and so on. #Person1#: In a word, you like all the movies except for the horror movies. #Person2#: Yeah, It seems like we don't talk the same language as far as movies are concerned. #Person1#: Not quite. I also like romance and comedy movies very much. #Person2#: The Terminal is a movie of this type. #Person1#: So we can relax now. #Person2#: Yeah, I could hardly wait to see it.

#Person1# invites #Person2# to see a horror movie but #Person2# doesn't like. They finally decide to watch a romance and comedy one.

watch a movie

train_763

#Person1#: Do Mona and Jim need a new house? #Person2#: No, they have a big new fancy house. #Person1#: Does Jim make a lot of money? #Person2#: Yes, he does. He is a science fiction writer. #Person1#: Does Jim need to make more money? #Person2#: Afraid so. The more the better. #Person1#: What do they need all that money for? #Person2#: Well, they spend it pretty quick. New clothes, new computers and new cars every year. And they've got a cook and housekeeper. Mona used to be an actress, she likes to spend a lot of money. #Person1#: Do they have any children? #Person2#: No. They want children but no luck yet. #Person1#: What does Jim like to do? #Person2#: Jim likes to travel around the world. That's expensive! So he tries to make a lot of money. #Person1#: What does Mona like to do? #Person2#: Oh, she enjoys spending money on fancy parties. Mona loves to wear sexy dresses, and she has quite a bit of jewelry. #Person1#: Wow. . . She sounds like a high maintenance wife. #Person2#: I guess so. She is also interested in politics. She knows everyone in city government. #Person1#: Politics can be an expensive hobby. #Person2#: She is pretty serious about it. Her uncle is a mayor. She wants to follow in his footsteps. #Person1#: Politics is a hard game to play. #Person2#: She might do well. Everyone seems to like her.

#Person1# and #Person2# are talking about Jim and Mona. Jim is a science-fiction writer and makes lots of money. He likes traveling around the world. His wife Mona is an actress who likes spending money on fancy dresses and jewelry. She also likes politics and wants to follow in his uncle's, a mayor, footsteps.

personal life

train_764

#Person1#: I really like the record you lent me the other day. #Person2#: I'm glad you like it. #Person1#: And thank you very much for letting me keep it so long. #Person2#: Not at all. #Person1#: I'm most grateful. Everyone in our class enjoyed it. #Person2#: I'm glad. #Person1#: Would you mind my keeping it for another week?

#Person1# likes the record borrowed from #Person2# and asks for another week's lending.

record keeping

train_765

#Person1#: You haven't spent much time with Sophia lately. Are you speaking to each other at the moment? #Person2#: No, we're not. We've been drifting apart for a while. #Person1#: But you two used to do everything together. I thought you really enjoyed each other's company. #Person2#: We did, but since she started her new job, all she does is hang out with her new friends from work. #Person1#: Can't you hang out with them, too? #Person2#: I could, but all they ever talk about is work, so I always end up feeling left out. #Person1#: Maybe you should invite her over for dinner, so it's just the two of you. #Person2#: I tried that a few weeks ago and she ended bringing a pal from work with her! She's so busy these days that it's just impossible to hang out with her. #Person1#: It can't be that bad. She was always a really good friend to you. #Person2#: You're right. She would never talk about me behind my back or hold a grudge. But she just doesn't seem very interested in our friendship anymore. #Person1#: She's probably just excited about her new job. You should give her some time. It would be a shame to lose such a good friend. #Person2#: I've given her enough time. I'm over it now. #Person1#: I still think you two should try to patch things up. #Person2#: I think I just have to accept the fact that it's time for us to go our separate ways.

#Person1# asks about #Person2# with Sophia's friendship. #Person2# says they have been drifting apart for a while because Sophia always hangs out with her new friends from work. #Person1# advises to give Sophia some time, but #Person2# thinks it's time to go their separate ways.

friendship

train_766

#Person1#: My wife's birthday is today. I need some flowers. #Person2#: We have lots of fresh red roses. #Person1#: How much do the roses cost? #Person2#: $20 a dozen. #Person1#: That sounds good. Last year I paid $30. #Person2#: Yes, you came here on the right day. They're on sale today. #Person1#: Give me a dozen. #Person2#: Very good. Would you like anything else? #Person1#: No, I'll just give her the roses and a card. #Person2#: She should be very pleased with these roses.

#Person1# buys a dozen of roses which are on sale for his wife's birthday.

buying flowers

train_767

#Person1#: I'm about to run out of business cards. I need some new ones. #Person2#: We can print as many as you like. Just tell me how many. #Person1#: Two thousand should get me through the year. #Person2#: Here's a form to get you started. #Person1#: My old card is perfect, so all I want you to do is copy it exactly. #Person2#: I think you'll be very pleased with how well we duplicate your old card. #Person1#: . . . Here you go #Person2#: Thanks. Come back here next Wednesday to pick up your order, please. #Person1#: I'm sorry, but can you give me a three-day turnaround? #Person2#: If you don't mind paying a little extra, it's absolutely no problem. #Person3#: #Person1#: I'm about to run out of business cards. I need some new ones. #Person2#: We can print as many as you like. Just tell me how many. #Person1#: Two thousand should get me through the year. #Person2#: Here's a form to get you started. #Person1#: My old card is perfect, so all I want you to do is copy it exactly. #Person2#: I think you'll be very pleased with how well we duplicate your old card. #Person1#: . . . Here you go #Person2#: Thanks. Come back here next Wednesday to pick up your order, please. #Person1#: I'm sorry, but can you give me a three-day turnaround? #Person2#: If you don't mind paying a little extra, it's absolutely no problem.

#Person2# wants to print 2000 business cards as the old ones. The turnaround could be quicker if extra money is paid.

print business cards

train_768

#Person1#: Excuse me, sir. Could you spare a minute? #Person2#: Uh, yes. #Person1#: Do you go to work by train every day? #Person2#: Yes. I commute five days a week by train. #Person1#: And would you mind telling us what you think of the rail service? #Person2#: It's really very good. #Person1#: Why do you say that? #Person2#: Well, trains are frequent and come on time. #Person1#: Which train do you catch in the evening? #Person2#: I usually take the 5 thirty home. #Person1#: And can you get a seat? #Person2#: No, I usually have to stand. #Person1#: Would you agree that the service is fast? #Person2#: Yes, it's reasonably fast but it certainly isn't cheap. Fares have gone up25%.

#Person1# asks #Person2#'s attitude towards the rail service. #Person2# thinks the service is good but isn't cheap, and usually has to stand.

rail service

train_769

#Person1#: Would you like some tea or coffee? #Person2#: No, thank you. It's very late now. I won't be able to sleep well if I drink some tea or coffee. #Person1#: Then what about some water? #Person2#: Yes, please. #Person1#: Don't work too late since you are not in good health. You should be careful with your health. #Person2#: I know, but I have to finish these reports tonight. Our manager will use them at the meeting tomorrow morning. #Person1#: Can I help you with something? #Person2#: No, I'm afraid you can't. Just turn down the TV set a little so that it won't be so noisy. #Person1#: I will. I do hope that you will finish the report soon and get some sleep. #Person2#: Don't worry. It won't take me too long.

#Person2# has to finish the reports and #Person1# wants to help. But #Person2# only wants the TV sounds to be lower.

finish reports

train_770

#Person1#: Have you ever been to the Hard Rock Cafe? #Person2#: No. What is it? #Person1#: It's a rock and roll themed restaurant, but some locations are also hotels. It's a chain so cities all over the world have them. There is one in San Francisco. I was thinking about checking it out. Would you like to join me? #Person2#: Sure, that sounds fun. #Person1#: The original cafe was founded in London in 1971. But since 2007, the headquarters has been in Florida. It didn't start to expand worldwide until 1982 and the one San Francisco opened in 1984. #Person2#: Interesting. Actually come to think of it, I think I passed by one when I was traveling in is Stumble Turkey. Wow, I guess they really are all over the world. #Person1#: Yes, it's a very international chain. I was reading about it and apparently there are 191 locations all over the world in 59 different countries. #Person2#: Wow, that's amazing. #Person1#: Maybe we can go this weekend. #Person2#: I'm working this weekend, but I get my schedule for the following week tomorrow. I should probably have a few days free next week. #Person1#: OK. Sounds good. I'll call and see if I can make a reservation. Just give me a call when you know your schedule.

#Person1# introduces a chain rock and roll themed restaurant named Hard Rock Cafe to #Person2#. #Person2# thinks it's amazing, and they make a schedule to go there next week.

chain restaurant

train_771

#Person1#: Merry Christmas! #Person2#: Thank you. The same to you. #Person1#: Do you have any plans? #Person2#: I have been invited to a friend's party, but I want to go to my uncle's. And you? #Person1#: My roommate is having a party. I'll go there. #Person2#: Great! Watching TV or sleeping at home is really boring. #Person1#: Yes. Did you know that there would be a school sports meet next week? #Person2#: Really? I had no idea. I like watching the track and field events. They're really exciting. #Person1#: They're just so so, I think. Anyway, have a nice holiday. #Person2#: Thank you. And enjoy the party.

It's Christmas Day. #Person2# wants to go to uncle's party, and #Person1# plans to go to the roommate's party.

Christmas plan

train_772

#Person1#: How is travel in the 1960s different from that of the early 1900s dad? #Person2#: Well in the 1960s people rode in cars over wide roads. They flew in planes from Europe to America in a few hours. #Person1#: What about the 1900s? #Person2#: In the early 1900s planes were very new, to see one was so unusual that people of a town stopped what they were doing to watch it flying overhead. #Person1#: But today, it is quite different isn't it? #Person2#: Yes, today you were able to travel to many places in a few hours because of the development of the plane. You turn on electric lights because someone invented ways to make use of electricity, you are part of history. #Person1#: Is our life also changed by history? #Person2#: That's right. The history made by people before you were born has changed your life. #Person1#: I see thank you dad.

#Person2# answers the differences between how people traveled around in the 1960s and the early 1900s and tells #Person1# their life is changed by history.

different transportation

train_773

#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.

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.

James Bond exhibition

train_774

#Person1#: What about giving us more money? #Person2#: I'm sorry. But the local government doesn't have anymore money for the zoo. #Person1#: But if we don't find a solution soon, we'll have to close it. And the zoo was part of the city. It's a tourist attraction. #Person2#: Yes, but that's the point. It simply isn't attracting enough tourists. You're going to have to find the money from somewhere else. #Person1#: But it's also an important place for animal conservation. Some of these animals are endangered. If we didn't have zoos, they wouldn't survive. #Person2#: I understand that, but we need to find a different solution. What if you advertised the zoo? In the newspaper or on the radio, for example. #Person1#: But if we don't have any money, we can't advertise. #Person2#: Well, why don't you try some other way? You know, ask a company to support the zoo. #Person1#: Actually, that isn't a bad idea. You might be right. #Person2#: I have the names of some company bosses you could try to get in touch with.

#Person1# wants #Person2# to give more money to support the zoo. #Person2# suggests finding a different solution, such as asking for a company's help, and #Person2# has some company bosses' names.

zoo sponsorship

train_775

#Person1#: Put on the helmet, please. #Person2#: Do we need to put on the jackets too? #Person1#: You ' d better, to protect your clothes. Now please watch your step. #Person2#: Thank you. Is the production line fully automated? #Person1#: Well, not fully automated. #Person2#: I see. How do you control the quality? #Person1#: All products have to go through five checks in the whole manufacturing process. #Person2#: What ' s the monthly output? #Person1#: One thousand units per month now. But we ' ll be making 1, 200 units beginning with October. #Person2#: What ' s your usual percentage of rejects? #Person1#: About 2 % in normal operations. #Person2#: That ' s wonderful. Is that where the finished products come off? #Person1#: Yes. Shall we take a break now?

#Person1# shows #Person2# production line and answers #Person2#'s questions about automation, product checks, monthly output, and the percentage of rejects.

show the factory

train_776

#Person1#: I'm here to conduct the annual census of foreigners living in Beijing. This is my service ID card. #Person2#: OK. What do you want to know? #Person1#: We only need to verify your information against our records. #Person2#: OK. #Person1#: Please show me your passport and Residence Permit. #Person2#: Here you are. #Person1#: How long have you been living here? #Person2#: Two years. #Person1#: May I know your occupation? #Person2#: I'm a professor at a university. #Person1#: Is that right? Which university, if you don't mind my asking? #Person2#: I teach at Beijing Normal University, English composition and some conversational classes. #Person1#: Everything appears to be in order. Thank you for your time.

#Person1# comes to conduct the annual census of foreigners living in Beijing and needs to verify #Person2#'s information against the records.

verify the information

train_777

#Person1#: Do you have anything to do after this? #Person2#: No, I don't. #Person1#: Shall we drop in somewhere for a couple of drinks? #Person2#: That sounds like a good idea. #Person1#: I know a very interesting place. #Person2#: Oh, do you? Good.

#Person1# invites #Person2# to have some drinks.

have some drinks

train_778

#Person1#: Hey Eve, how are you? #Person2#: I'm fine, Celia. And you? #Person1#: I'm ok. I'm so busy! #Person2#: Do you have a lot of homework? #Person1#: Yes. Don't you? #Person2#: Of course I do! #Person1#: Which class are you working on right now? #Person2#: I'm studying for my chemistry exam tomorrow. #Person1#: Are you in Mrs. Green's class? #Person2#: Yes. Are you? #Person1#: Yes. We must have the same exam tomorrow! #Person2#: Do you want to study together? #Person1#: Sure. This library is too quiet though. #Person2#: Do you want to go to an empty classroom? #Person1#: That sounds good. #Person2#: OK. Let's go!

Eve and Celia find they have the same exam tomorrow, so they decide to study together.

study for exams

train_779

#Person1#: There is a wonderful opera today. I'd like to see it. #Person2#: I do not like the play with complicated plot. What's on today? #Person1#: 'The sound of music'. This music is known by everybody and is suitable for all ages. It is about a happy family without sex, violence or bad language. #Person2#: I know that. I have seen the film as the same title. Andrews gives a performance to be remembered for a lifetime from Maria to a cheerful governess. #Person1#: Yes, you are right. I like the song in the movie, edelweiss, do you remember it? #Person2#: Of course, it is a nice song that can make audience calm and pleasant. #Person1#: Those young actors play the roles perfectly. #Person2#: I hope the opera will be more stupendous than the movie. Have you bought the tickets? #Person1#: No, I am asking you whether you will go to see it. #Person2#: Let's go. We'd better buy the tickets earlier and have dinner in restaurant.

#Person1# tells #Person2# an opera called 'The sound of music' is on today. They talk about it and both like it, so they decide to watch it together.

talk about operas

train_780

#Person1#: It's a beautiful day, isn't it? #Person2#: Yes, isn't it. #Person1#: Do you know the temperature today? #Person2#: It's beautiful 75 degrees. #Person1#: How nice. I hope the weather will stay like this for the whole week. I'm going on the canoe trip this weekend. #Person2#: Not a good plan. The TV weather forecast says the hurricane is coming this weekend, and the temperature will also drop to 66 degrees. #Person1#: What a nuisance! Every time I plan to go canoeing or camping, a storm comes along. The sky gets dark, the wind starts to howl and the temperature drops. Well, I'd better stay home. #Person2#: I never make any definite weekend plan until Friday morning. Then after listening to the weather temperature, I make my plans. #Person1#: That's smart. I'm going to start doing the same thing.

#Person1#'s going on the canoe trip this weekend, however, #Person2# tells #Person1# the hurricane is coming. #Person1#'ll follow #Person2#'s idea to make plans after listening to the weather temperature.

the weather

train_781

#Person1#: Hello, Mike, long time no see. How's everything going? #Person2#: Not bad. Thank you. You look great today. And how is your husband? #Person1#: He caught a cold yesterday, but he feels much better now. #Person2#: Well, I'm glad to hear that. Please give my regards to him. #Person1#: I sure will. Thanks.

#Person1#'s husband caught a cold. Mike expresses regards to him.

greeting

train_782

#Person1#: what's your opinion about childless couples? Will you choose to have no kids? #Person2#: to be honest, I wouldn't. #Person1#: why? Do you have to make a choice now? #Person2#: not really. But it has puzzled me for a long time. #Person1#: what's the puzzle? #Person2#: my husband and I prefer to have no kids, but my mother-in-law is very traditional and wants grandkids. #Person1#: oh, I see. I think the older generation tend to think in a different way. #Person2#: yes. It seems she can never accept a childless marriage. We had a fight last night. #Person1#: oh, really? Maybe she is just eager to see her grandchildren. #Person2#: but it's absolutely our own business to have a child or not. #Person1#: definitely. #Person2#: you know, I often overhear our neighbor, the young couple, fighting about how to raise their kid and I really don't want kids to spoil our happiness. #Person1#: don't worry. I think in most cases, children are the glue that keeps a family together. #Person2#: I guess you're right. But I still prefer to have no child. #Person1#: sure. You can fully enjoy your time together.

#Person2# tells #Person1# that she doesn't want a child while her mother-in-law wants grandkids. #Person2# doesn't want kids to spoil her happiness. #Person1# thinks kids are the glue that keeps a family together.

have no kids

train_783

#Person1#: Where are you going this weekend? #Person2#: I'm going to Hainan. #Person1#: Oh really? It'll be nice and warm there. Have you been there before? #Person2#: Yes, actually it's my second visit. I was there last October. #Person1#: I see. What's it like there? #Person2#: Well, the life style is much more relaxed than here in the city. And the seafood is tastier! #Person1#: Well, have a great time!

#Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# will have a second visit to Hainan this weekend.

go to Hainan

train_784

#Person1#: Who is it? #Person2#: Supervisor. Open the door. #Person1#: Wait a sec. #Person2#: What are you doing here? #Person1#: We're watching a football match. What's the matter? #Person2#: Your neighbors complained that you were so noisy that they can't sleep. #Person1#: I'm sorry about this. #Person2#: Please turn down the TV. And not another shout or I'll have to report you to the school administration. #Person1#: You can rest assured that we won't disturb others anymore.

The supervisor warns #Person1# not to make noise, which disturbs their neighbors' sleep.

make noises

train_785

#Person1#: Did you ever take History 231? #Person2#: Yeah. Last semester. #Person1#: Who was the professor? #Person2#: It was Professor Johnson. #Person1#: I have him this semester. What do you think about him? #Person2#: He's a terrible instructor and demands a lot, but fortunately, he's an easy grader. #Person1#: What did you end up getting? #Person2#: I got an A -. Sounds good, but none of my test scores were that high, so I don't know how I got a decent grade. #Person1#: That's probably because he grades on a curve. #Person2#: Are you enjoying the class so far? #Person1#: I hate it and I was about to withdrawal. But after hearing your experience, I think I will tough it out. #Person2#: Yes. Definitely stay in the class. You will get a better grade than your test scores. He does that deliberately to make all the students study a lot. #Person1#: Thanks for letting me know. I feel relieved now.

#Person2# tells #Person1# the professor of History 231 is demanding during the semester but gives better grades than test scores. #Person1#, who at first wants to quit the course, feels relieved.

a professor

train_786

#Person1#: Waiter, bring me the menu, will you? #Person2#: Just a moment, I'm coming. ( ten minutes later ). Now, what would you like? #Person1#: I'd like to see the menu. Would you get me one, please? #Person2#: Yes, certainly. Here you are. #Person1#: Thank you. Ah! But this is in French. Would you mind giving me the English menu? #Person2#: It's written in English too, in smaller print. There. #Person1#: Thanks. I'll need a while to choose. Could you come back in a minute? #Person2#: Right. ( five minutes later ) Now, what are you having? #Person1#: I'm sorry, I haven't decided yet. Do you mind giving me a couple of minutes? #Person2#: All right, but would you be so kind as to make up your mind soon? We're very busy just now as you can see, sir.

#Person2# brings #Person1# a menu as #Person1# requests. #Person1# needs more time to order. The waiter reminds #Person1# to decide soon because they are busy.

order a meal

train_787

#Person1#: You have any ideas as to what you want to do this weekend? #Person2#: I'm going to the movie theater with my friend. What are you going to do? #Person1#: I'm not quite sure yet. #Person2#: How about you see a movie with me and my friend? #Person1#: What movie are you and your friend planning on watching? #Person2#: Not sure. Is there a movie out that catches your eye? #Person1#: No good movies come to mind. #Person2#: Have you decided whether or not you would like to go? #Person1#: No, thanks. Maybe another time. #Person2#: For sure another day.

#Person2# will see a movie with friends this weekend. #Person2# asks #Person1# to come together, but #Person1# refuses.

see a movie

train_788

#Person1#: Can you believe her? She is not even a hundred pounds and she is going off on how she wants to go on a diet. #Person2#: Tell me about it. If I was as small as her, I wouldn't think about going on a diet. #Person1#: Me too. But what are we going to do? I have been on 4 different diets and I can't seem to lose weight. #Person2#: That's because you don't exercise. If you were more active, you wouldn't have a dieting problem. #Person1#: What do you know? You are over weight too. #Person2#: I'm not on a diet though. #Person1#: I know. But I don't have someone to diet with. If we help each other and motivate each other, then I think we can lose some weight. #Person2#: I like ice cream too much though. #Person1#: C'mon. You'll feel better and look better and as a reward you can eat a little bit of ice cream here and there. #Person2#: It does sound appealing. #Person1#: It's a great idea. I can't believe I didn't think of this earlier. Going on a diet with a friend to back you up is a great way to succeed. #Person2#: Okay. I'm in. Let's do it. #Person1#: Great. I'll get our plan started right away. #Person2#: Can we start tomorrow though?

#Person1# and #Person2# are overweight and don't know how to lose weight. #Person1# puts up the idea of going on a diet with a friend to back up. #Person1# agrees, and they decide to have a try.

lose weight

train_789

#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.

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

immigration control

train_790

#Person1#: What happens if we make a deal and thirty to sixty days after delivery the price goes down and you didn't get the best possible price? How do I handle that? #Person2#: Well, these things happens, I know that. You just have to stay straight with me. #Person1#: Right! So how do I do that? What will make you happy? #Person2#: Well, I suggest you just keep me posted. That should do it. That way the burden is on me to decide when to buy, not you. #Person1#: Excuse me? #Person2#: Yeah, it really is that simple. Every time there's a change in the items we do business on, you let me know. That's all you need to do. #Person1#: What kind of change, just in prices? #Person2#: No, any change. I want you to keep me as informed as you are. I need to know as much as you do. If you hear about something that might happen, then tell me about it. Tell me it's rumor, what it's based on and your opinion on how likely it is. #Person1#: You mean on product availability, reliability and price? #Person2#: No, everthing. Those things for sure, but also labor problems, raw materials, new subcontractors, mergers, in short, anything and everything. So I can make a fully informed decision. #Person1#: So it's like you want me to be your eyes and ears into the industry. I can do that, provided the company I'm working for isn't hurt. #Person2#: I think we'll get along fine.

#Person1# wants to know what should do if the price goes down after making the deal. #Person2# asks #Person1# to report to #Person2# if there's any change in the items they do business on, so #Person2# can make a fully informed decision.

business negociation

train_791

#Person1#: Hello, may I speak to Mr. Robert the Human Resources Manager? #Person2#: Wait a minute. I will get him here. Sorry, he is busy doing something. Why don't you give him a ring later? #Person1#: OK, that's fine. Thank you. #Person2#: You are welcome.

#Person1#'ll ring Mr. Robert later for he's busy.

speak to someone

train_792

#Person1#: Good morning, can I help you? #Person2#: Yes, I'd like to check out. #Person1#: Yes, of course sir. What's your name and your room number, PLS? #Person2#: Jack Remington, room 1408. #Person1#: Ok, here is your bill, Mr. Remington. #Person2#: Which of these is my bill? #Person1#: Oh, I am sorry sir. I forgot to explain that to you. This one is an allowance slip. We made a mistake in your bill and overcharged you 120 dollars. So we had to write up an allowance slip and deduct 120 dollars from your bill. #Person2#: I see. So this is the bill then and the total is. . . ? #Person1#: Down here, 800 dollars. How do you wish to settle your account, sir, in cash or by credit card? #Person2#: In cash. #Person1#: Is that US dollars? #Person2#: Yes. #Person1#: Just a moment, PLS. I'll write out a receipt for you.

#Person1# serves Jack Remington to check out and gives him the bill. #Person1# explains to Jack that they made a mistake in his bill and have corrected it.

check out

train_793

#Person1#: Can I help you with something? #Person2#: I need to cancel one of my accounts. #Person1#: Is there a problem with it? #Person2#: I don't need it anymore. #Person1#: What would you like to do with all the money in this account? #Person2#: Just transfer it over to my remaining account. #Person1#: I can do that. #Person2#: That would be great. #Person1#: Do you want to take any money out? #Person2#: Not today. #Person1#: It's going to take a moment for me to cancel your account. #Person2#: That's fine. Take your time.

#Person2# asks #Person1# to cancel one of #Person2#'s account and transfer the money to #Person2#'s remaining account.

cancel an account

train_794

#Person1#: Hello, Steven. Annie said that you and Julia have had a quarrel, haven't you? #Person2#: That's true. We had an argument yesterday. She blamed me for not preparing the supper that day, but it was her turn to cook the dinner. #Person1#: That's the reason why you fought? #Person2#: Yes. #Person1#: You two are always quarrelling over little things. #Person2#: That wasn't my fault, but she said'you're a disgrace'to me. I'm about to explode! #Person1#: Are you still mad at her now? #Person2#: To be honest, I'm not, and I regret a little what I have done. #Person1#: Will you apologize to her? #Person2#: No way. It's her who should apologize.

Steven tells #Person1# he argued with Julia yesterday. Steven regrets a little now but he won't apologize.

have an argument

train_795

#Person1#: How was your appraisal with the boss? #Person2#: Oh it was really good. Do you know, he's the nicest boss I'Ve had here. #Person1#: Yes, I think he's the most relaxed person in management. #Person2#: What's more, he said I was the hardest working person in the office! #Person1#: That's good. Maybe you'll get promoted. #Person2#: I hope so. Then I'll be the happiest person in our office too!

#Person1# and #Person2# think the boss is nice, and #Person2#'s happy with the boss's praise.

the boss

train_796

#Person1#: Can I help you? #Person2#: Thank you, but I'm just looking around. How much does this skirt cost? #Person1#: This is the new style. Two hundred and twenty-eight. #Person2#: May I try it on? #Person1#: Of course, please. #Person2#: Can you give me a better deal? #Person1#: Two hundred and ten yuan. It is the lowest price. #Person2#: Well, I'll give one hundred and eighty yuan for it. #Person1#: Well, two hundred yuan. #Person2#: No, this is my final offer. #Person1#: OK, I'll wrap it for you.

#Person2# buys a skirt for 180 yuan after bargaining for it with #Person1#.

bargaining

train_797

#Person1#: Dan, did you want to see me? #Person2#: Oh, yes, Sue, please sit down. We need some help. #Person1#: What can I do? #Person2#: Look at this schedule. There are four conferences in April. And there aren't enough representatives to cover all of them. #Person1#: But I am not on the executive staff. #Person2#: I know, but you have studied management and merchandising. And we have openings for more managerial people. There is a good opportunity for you here. #Person1#: That sounds wonderful. But what do you want me to do? #Person2#: There's a conference in Seattle on the 18th of April. I want you to represent us. #Person1#: That's a big responsibility. #Person2#: You'll do very well, and I'm pretty sure. #Person1#: Is there a lot to learn? #Person2#: There are a few things, but they aren't difficult. #Person1#: There isn't much time left. Can I start now? #Person2#: There are some reports on the previous conferences in the files. You can study those. #Person1#: Can you give me any guidelines about etiquette in other countries? #Person2#: There are several overall guidelines that apply to international conferences. #Person1#: Then where can I find all the country-specific information? #Person2#: Usually you can call that country's embassy or consulate. Most of them have printed materials for business visitors. And there are also travel books available at public libraries. If you don't have enough time, you can also ask Sally, as she attended the conference there last time. #Person1#: Great. And will our company arrange for transportation? #Person2#: Yes. Tell the travel department about what you think you'll need, and they can make arrangements for you. #Person1#: Thank you. I will give it my best shot.

Dan wants Sue to represent them to attend a conference in Seattle. He tells her the things needed to learn and the overall guidelines that apply to international conferences. Sue can find the country-specific information by calling that country's embassy or consulate.

attend a conference

train_798

#Person1#: So, how are things going, Steve? #Person2#: Well, to be honest Carla, I was feeling great on Saturday, but I started to feel sick Sunday afternoon. I thought I'd get better, but I feel worse than before. And I'm really worried because I'm scheduled to give a presentation at work on Friday, so I have to be better by then. #Person1#: Well, what seems to be the problem? #Person2#: Well, I thought I had the flu, but the doctor said it was just a bad cold. He gave me some cold medicine to take care of my stuffy nose and fever. I'm supposed to take the medicine three times a day after eating, but it doesn't seem to help. He also told me to stay off my feet for a day or so, but I'm so busy these days. #Person1#: Listen, forget about that medicine! I have just the thing to get rid of bad colds. You see, my mom is really into herbal medicine. #Person2#: Oh, no thanks. #Person1#: Ah, come on! Give it a try. You just take some of my mom's herbal tea and drink it four times a day. Believe me. You'll be up and dancing around in no time. #Person2#: Dancing around in no time, right? Well, I guess. Nothing else seems to be doing the job. #Person1#: Great. I'll come by your place at 7:30. See you then.

Steve tells Carla he feels sick since Sunday and he has to recover before his presentation on Friday. He got some medicine from the doctor but it doesn't help. Carla recommends him to try her mom's herbal tea, which is more effective.

feel sick

train_799

#Person1#: My camera has broken down. I'm thinking of buying a new one. #Person2#: Try MA-205. You won't regret it. #Person1#: I know this model is of a good quality and design but it's too expensive. #Person2#: You can buy a cheaper one on the Internet. #Person1#: On the Internet? How? #Person2#: Use a search engine and search for cheap MA-205. #Person1#: A search engine? Em, what's that? #Person2#: You really live in the stone age. All right, tell me your budget and I'll see whether I can get one for you.

#Person2# recommends #Person1# to buy a cheaper MA-205 on the Internet by using a search engine.

buy a camera