Datasets:

knkarthick

/

dialogsum

like 180

train_12400

#Person1#: I haven't seen your father in like 5 years. How is he doing? #Person2#: He's not doing too well. #Person1#: Why? What's wrong? #Person2#: About a year ago, he started feeling weak all the time. #Person1#: Is it due to old age or is he sick. #Person2#: Maybe a little of both. The doctor's can't point out anything specifically. I think it is because he didn't take care of himself during his youth. #Person1#: That makes sense. It's important to take care of your health early in life. #Person2#: That's what my father tells me almost everyday. #Person1#: Well, I hope he starts feeling better. Say hi to him for me. #Person2#: Thanks. I'll let him know.

#Person2#'s father started feeling weak a year ago and keeps telling #Person2# the importance of taking care of health early in life. #Person1# is sorry.

keep healthy

train_12401

#Person1#: Sandy. Do you have a minute? #Person2#: Yes, John. I'm on my break. What's going on? #Person1#: Not much. I just wanted to see how you were. How's married life treating you? #Person2#: Great, except for my mother-in-law! Sometimes I think I married her instead of my husband! How about you?

Sandy tells John her marriage is great except for her mother-in-law.

marriage life

train_12402

#Person1#: I would like to get some meat today. #Person2#: What kind do you need? #Person1#: I need about a pound of ground beef. #Person2#: The ground beef is $2. 48 a pound. #Person1#: That sounds good. #Person2#: What else would you like? #Person1#: I also need three pounds of chicken breasts. #Person2#: The chicken breasts are $4. 05 a pound. #Person1#: How much will the three pounds of chicken cost altogether? #Person2#: Altogether, it's going to be $12. 15. #Person1#: That will be all for me. #Person2#: All right, let me get your meat for you.

#Person2# helps #Person1# buy a pound of ground beef and three pounds of chicken breasts.

meat shopping

train_12403

#Person1#: I watched a very interesting documentary about plants yesterday evening. It was called 'unusual plants' and looked at several species of plants from around the world which have unusual features. #Person2#: Really? Tell me about some of the plants they showed. #Person1#: Well. There was one type of plant that catches insects and eats them. #Person2#: Is that type of plant found in this country? #Person1#: No, it isn't. it's a pity, because I'd like to see it in action. #Person2#: So would I. what other unusual plants did they show? #Person1#: They showed flowers that only provide their nectar to one type of butterfly or bee. The insect has to be the exact size to get the nectar. Other insects cannot get it. Of course, when the insect collects the nectar, it also takes some pollen from one flower to another. #Person2#: That's very specialized. So, the insects and the flowers rely on each other. If one became extinct, the other would too. #Person1#: That's right. That's one reason why it's so important to protect every species. #Person2#: I see. The plants that fascinate me most are cacti. I find it amazing that they can survive in such dry desert conditions. #Person1#: According to the documentary, they have an incredible ability to find water supplies, however small, and then store them without losing much through evaporation. #Person2#: That's why they often have long roots to find water spines instead of leaves, to reduce water loss.

#Person1# watched a very interesting documentary about plants. #Person1# tells #Person2# some of them, including a plant that catches insects and eats them, flowers that only provide their nectar to one type of butterfly or bee, and cacti that can find water supplies and store them.

a plant documentary

train_12404

#Person1#: Hello, Dan. I was sorry to hear that you had an accident last week. How did it happen and how are you feeling now? #Person2#: Well, I was riding on my bicycle along the street, when a taxi driver suddenly made a sharp turn in front of me. I could not stop my bicycle in time and I was knocked down. Fortunately, I only got a broken arm and a broken leg. The doctor said that I would have to stay in hospital for at least a week. #Person1#: Do your arm and leg hurt now? #Person2#: Yes, my leg hurts badly, but I can bear the pain. The only thing that I'm worried about is my classes, you know? Our teacher said next week, we would have our midterm exams. #Person1#: Well, don't worry about the exams. I can help you. #Person2#: Thank you. But I don't really want to stay here that long. Anyway, thank you for coming to see me.

Dan had an accident last week and broke his arm and leg, so he and is worried about the classes. #Person1# will help him.

an accident

train_12405

#Person1#: Jerry, is that you? #Person2#: Hey Jenny. How are you doing? I don't think I've seen you in over 5 years. #Person1#: I know, it's been a long time. It's funny to run into you on Christmas Eve. #Person2#: Yeah, isn't that funny? Why aren't you at home with your family? #Person1#: My family doesn't live here. They moved to Texas 3 years ago. #Person2#: I see. Well, why don't you fly home to Texas for the holidays? #Person1#: I have to work tomorrow. Why didn't you go home? #Person2#: I wanted to, but I didn't have enough money to buy a plane ticket. #Person1#: I'm sorry you couldn't go home. How is everything else going? #Person2#: I'm OK but I'm having trouble finding a job. What's up with you? #Person1#: I can't complain. My job is going well, and I have a nice apartment. Since we're both alone for the holidays, we should have dinner together. #Person2#: Sounds good. Let's go.

Jerry meets Jenny on the Christmas Eve. Jerry's having trouble finding a job while Jenny goes well. They will have dinner together since they both can't go home.

social meeting

train_12406

#Person1#: John, you seem to be a little bit mad. Did I say something wrong? #Person2#: No, Julia, it's not about you. #Person1#: Oh, then what is it? #Person2#: Haven't you noticed that red car? It keeps trying to cut in. I'll teach that young lady who is the better driver. #Person1#: John, you've been caught by your road rage again. We are not in a hurry anyway. Just let her pass. #Person2#: Ah, sorry, Julia. I just become easily losing my temper when I'm driving. I took these pills an hour ago to make myself calm, but it doesn't seem to work at all. #Person1#: You know the yoga class I've been taking? It really helps me get my inner peace. Why don't you come with me next time and give it to go? #Person2#: Ah, it's so girly. I just can't find a man I know doing yoga, so forget about it.

John has road rage although he took pills to make himself calm. Julia asks him to go to yoga class with her but he refuses.

control one's temper

train_12407

#Person1#: Good morning, what's wrong? #Person2#: I have been feeling terrible since yesterday morning. I have a runny nose and my throat is sore, but I don't have a cough. #Person1#: Do you have a high fever? #Person2#: Yes, my temperature was 38 degrees celsius yesterday afternoon. And it rose to 39 degrees celsius last night. #Person1#: I will give you some medicine. You should take the medicine 3 times a day and 4 pills each time. #Person2#: When will I start to feel better? #Person1#: Have a good rest, and you will feel better 3 hours after you take the medicine. #Person2#: Thank you.

#Person2# feels terrible. #Person1# gives #Person2# some medicine and asks #Person2# to have a good rest.

see a doctor

train_12408

#Person1#: Hey, what's this? #Person2#: Oh, It's that show where they have to answer questions about the biggest natural wonders. Last week, I may want to trip to Egypt to visit the pyramids. #Person1#: The pyramids? We studied those in school. Let's watch and see when they get to go this week. #Person2#: Oh, wait a minute. That's the same guy. It's the same show as last week. I don't want to see the same thing again. Can we see the film on channel 10? #Person1#: Uh, come on, just for a minute. I haven't seen it, please.

#Person2# has watched the show about the pyramids in Egypt but #Person1# hasn't seen it.

a show

train_12409

#Person1#: Lily, are you going to come to the language club? It's every week after school. #Person2#: Which day is it? I can't come on Wednesday or on Thursday. I have dance classes then. #Person1#: It's on Tuesday. So you could come. #Person2#: Well. Tell me more about it. #Person1#: It sounds fun to me. You learn a little bit about a different language each month. We've learned French and Chinese already. And next month, we'll learn some Japanese. #Person2#: Wow, where do the members meet? #Person1#: You know classroom 4, the big room on the second floor? #Person2#: Yes. #Person1#: Well, it's in the smaller room next to it. #Person2#: Room 3? #Person1#: That's right.

#Person1# invites Lily to the language club where they can learn a little bit about different languages in classroom 3.

the language club

train_12410

#Person1#: Hello, this is Leslie Caron in the shipping department. Is that Martin Reynolds? #Person2#: Yes, Ms. Caron. Has my package arrived? #Person1#: That's what I'm calling about. Your package has just been unloaded from the truck, but it seems it has been damaged during shipment. The box is crushed at one end. And what should I do? #Person2#: That's terrible. Well, don't let the delivery driver leave. I'll be there in 5 minutes. #Person1#: OK, I will wait for you.

Leslie tells Martin her package has been damaged. Martin will be there.

a damaged package

train_12411

#Person1#: Did you have a part-time job when you were still in school? #Person2#: No, I was way too busy studying all the time. How about you? #Person1#: Yeah, I worked about twenty hours a week in a pizza restaurant. #Person2#: What was that like? #Person1#: It was always very busy there. #Person2#: What did you do? #Person1#: I stood behind the register and took pizza orders. #Person2#: Did you get any perks on the job? #Person1#: Yeah, I got to eat as much pizza as I could for free.

#Person1# has a part-time job while #Person2# is too busy to work part-time.

part-time job

train_12412

#Person1#: Can you help me find a lotion for a problem I am having? #Person2#: That ' s what I am here for. What questions can I answer for you? #Person1#: I have poison oak, and I need help with the rash that won ' t stop itching. #Person2#: The best product is Techne, and you can buy either the lotion or cream. #Person1#: Which one is best? #Person2#: The cream form is very popular. #Person1#: Can I do anything else to help with the itching? #Person2#: You could also take an antihistamine to help the rash go away quicker. #Person1#: I appreciate you helping me find a solution to the itching. #Person2#: Anytime you have a question, please feel free to ask.

#Person1# has poison oak. #Person2# helps #Person1# find cream and advises #Person1# to take an antihistamine to make the rash go away.

soultion to itching

train_12413

#Person1#: Good morning, I made an appointment with Dr. Smith, but I have to change it. #Person2#: When you made your appointment, what day did you choose? #Person1#: My appointment was on Wednesday. #Person2#: At what time was that appointment? #Person1#: It was for 4 #Person2#: I can see the appointment that you had. What day do you need to change to? #Person1#: I want to change to next Tuesday. #Person2#: What time would you prefer? #Person1#: I would prefer three o ' clock in the afternoon. #Person2#: I will put you down for that time. Thank you for calling to reschedule.

#Person1# reschedules the appointment with Dr. Smith to three o'clock in the afternoon next Thursday.

reschedule appointment

train_12414

#Person1#: Do you have anything to declare? #Person2#: I have a camera and three bottles of whisky. #Person1#: OK. You'll have to pay duty for the whisky. #Person2#: Well, where shall I pay the duty for the whisky? #Person1#: Please wait a moment. I'll make out the duty memo. Here you are. Take this and pay the people over there. #Person2#: I've paid the duty. Here is the receipt #Person1#: Very well. I hope you'll enjoy your stay in China. #Person2#: Thank you.

#Person2# pays the duty for the whisky after #Person1# asks #Person2# whether #Person2# has anything to declare.

items to declare

train_12415

#Person1#: I'm searching for an old music box. #Person2#: You came to the right place. Any particular decade? #Person1#: If you had a box made in the ' 20s, that would be nice. #Person2#: We just got one in yesterday, so now we have six. #Person1#: Would any of them have dancing figures? #Person2#: Yes, we still have two boxes left that have dancing figures. #Person1#: Oh, they're both so beautiful. Let me have this one, I think. #Person2#: That one truly is a beautiful piece of work, isn't it? #Person1#: One last question #Person2#: Oh, no. Everything we sell here is ' as is. ' #Person1#: I guess I was asking for too much. #Person2#: If it breaks down, maybe you can find a repairman on the Internet.

#Person2# helps #Person1# search for an old music box with dancing figures. #Person1# takes one.

old music box

train_12416

#Person1#: Good morning. Are you Mr. Liu? #Person2#: My name is Liu Lichi. How do you do? #Person1#: How do you do? Please be seated, How is your trip here? #Person2#: Quite good, I think. I came here by bus, and it took me about 15 minutes. #Person1#: Oh, yes. How old are you? #Person2#: Twenty. #Person1#: Hum, still a student? #Person2#: Yes, I'm student of grade 3 in the university majoring in economics. #Person1#: What subjects are you studying? #Person2#: English, math, commercial and legal studies, and accountancy. #Person1#: Have you had any working experience. #Person2#: Well, I worked at a supermarket during last summer holidays. #Person1#: What do you like to do in your spare time? #Person2#: I like sports very much. Besides that, I also like working on a computer in my spare time. #Person1#: How are your English and computer skills? #Person2#: I have passed the CET - 4 and 6. As far as computer is concerned I can use the computer for word processing. #Person1#: Okay. Mr. Liu, we'll inform you of the results within a week.

#Person1# asks Liu Lichi some personal information including age, major, working experience, English, and computer skills and will inform him of the results within a week.

basic information

train_12417

#Person1#: Hi, Sarah. The results of questionnaire have come out. We need to discuss it together then write a research report. #Person2#: How is the new product? #Person1#: 30 % of the people are attracted by the style. Buyers always pay great attention to packing. In my opinion, these goods didn't sell well merely because of the poor packing. #Person2#: Yes, I think so. And how about the price? #Person1#: Almost 30 % of the consumers can't accept the price. Maybe we should lower our price a little. #Person2#: Yes, I agree with you. We should add our opinions to the research report. #Person1#: Absolutely.

#Person1# and Sarah conclude from the results of the questionnaire that the new product should have attractive packing and a lower price.

questionnaire results

train_12418

#Person1#: Excuse me. I think I have got lost in the Art Gallery. Can you tell me the way to the exit. #Person2#: Sure. Go back and take the third turning on the left. #Person1#: Thank you very much. I have been wondering here for almost half an hour. #Person2#: It is really like a labyrinth.

#Person2# tells #Person1# where the exit of the art gallery is.

asking the way

train_12419

#Person1#: Is this American Airlines? #Person2#: Yes, sir. My name is Ellen. How may I help you? #Person1#: I need to get a flight to Chicago on the 7th in the morning. Can you give me a hand? #Person2#: Certainly, sir. There's a flight at 8: 35 a. m. and one at 10.

Ellen from American Airlines tells #Person1# the flight time to Chicago.

plane information

train_12420

#Person1#: My elder aunt feels like vomiting, she is pregnant. #Person2#: She'd better drink plenty of hot water and lie in bed. #Person1#: But she feels like having no appetite at all if she stays at home all day. #Person2#: Don't worry. She will be all right.

#Person1#'s aunt feels uncomfortable during pregnancy and #Person2# gives her some advice.

pregnacy vomiting

train_12421

#Person1#: They promised us a sea view. #Person2#: Well, you can just see the sea. Between the factory chimneys. #Person1#: Isn't it awful? I can't bear to look at it. I don't think I can stand this place for two weeks. #Person2#: Well, it can't be helped. We'll just have to put up with it.

#Person2# thinks they should put up with the awful place when #Person1# complains.

awful place

train_12422

#Person1#: Hello, Is this EYE computers? #Person2#: Yeas, It is. Sewen Jes speaking. How can I help? #Person1#: Actually, I'm calling to complain about your service. The computer I bought last week is faulty. #Person2#: Oh, I'm sorry to hear that, sir. What exactly is problem? #Person1#: Well, easily, It doesn't work. It doesn't even start probably. #Person2#: Oh, dear! I'll do well I can.

#Person1# makes a complaint call when his new computer doesn't work.

complaints hotline

train_12423

#Person1#: I don't know about you, but I am famished. Are you interested in getting a bite to eat? #Person2#: That sounds great. I'm absolutely starving! What kind of food are you in the mood for? #Person1#: I'd love something spicy. Maybe we could get some Sichuan hotpot. #Person2#: You are a woman after my own heart. I don't know many people who can handle spicy food. Are you sure you are up for hot pot? #Person1#: Sure. If I could, I would eat hot pot every day! #Person2#: Ok, you are really all eyes when it comes to talking about food, aren't you? #Person1#: Well, let's stop dragging our feet and find a Sichuan hot pot restaurant for dinner! #Person2#: Let me think about it for a minute. Let's see. . . oh the name of the restaurant is on the tip of my tongue! Give me a second and it'll come to me. #Person1#: Well. . . ? Have you thought of it yet? #Person2#: No. . . #Person1#: Never mind. There's an authentic tasting hot pot restaurant not far from the China World Trade Towers on Chang An Street. Have you been there? #Person2#: That's it! That's the one I was thinking of! I told you I'd remember it! #Person1#: You really have a big head, don't you.

#Person1# suggests eating hot pot and #Person2# tries to recall the name of a restaurant. #Person1# recommends a restaurant and it happens to be the one #Person2# was thinking of.

finding a restaurant

train_12424

#Person1#: Why don't you sit down and relax, darling? #Person2#: I don't want to. #Person1#: Well, come and talk to me then. #Person2#: Certainly not. #Person1#: May I turn on the radio then? #Person2#: Turn on the radio? What for? #Person1#: So that we can sit down together and listen to some music. #Person2#: Listen to some music? And who'll cook dinner? Will you? #Person1#: Ok, I will. But let's go to a disco after dinner. #Person2#: To a disco? Oh, no. You know I hate pop.

#Person1# suggests #Person2# listening to music and going to a disco. #Person2# is not interested.

relax

train_12425

#Person1#: You are quite busy every day. #Person2#: Yes. Work starts at eight and I arrive home after six. #Person1#: So you have to work all day. #Person2#: I can take a break at lunch time, but it is only 30 minutes. #Person1#: I see you sometimes work on weekends, too. #Person2#: Yes, I really don't like it.

#Person2# works from 8 am to 6 pm and has a 30-minute lunch break.

working hours

train_12426

#Person1#: Are you excited about your trip next month? #Person2#: Yes and no. I can't wait to go to Europe, but at the same time I am terrified. #Person1#: Why? #Person2#: Well, I have acrophobia. I have a chronic fear of flying. #Person1#: Oh really? I have an uncle who is also terrified of flying. It's not that bad though, I mean, it is pretty scary to be in this big machine flying through the air at seven hundred miles per hour. I actually have arachnophobia. #Person2#: You're scared of spiders? I actually have two more phobias. Acrophobia and glossophobia. #Person1#: I guess that explains why you are afraid of flying, but public speaking is not that bad. #Person2#: Are you kidding? When I get on stage, my palms start to sweat, I get really nervous and I can hardly speak. #Person1#: Well, I must confess I am a bit claustrophobic. I hate being in an elevator for more than 5 seconds. #Person2#: We are such weirdos right?

#Person2# is excited to go to Europe but terrified of flying. #Person2# has acrophobia and glossophobia. #Person1# has arachnophobia and claustrophobia. #Person2# thinks they are weirdos.

mental symptom

train_12427

#Person1#: I don't understand why you always look so happy, so energetic. It seems like you'Ve got good news everyday. #Person2#: Really? Do I look happy all the time? #Person1#: All I know is you look quite differently from other teachers. #Person2#: Oh, do you know why? Actually, it's easy. Because I always exercise. My exercise, I think, is very hard. I often feel very good after conquering these difficulties. I feel alive! #Person1#: Oh, I know. I saw you doing pull-ups one time on the campus and some students trying to imitate you. #Person2#: Yeah, they are doing it for fun. Seldom would people like my exercise. It's difficult and boring. #Person1#: It's true. Many students do the exercise when they have to. We have P. E. once a week. #Person2#: But I think Chinese students need to exercise more. Besides exercise will help them learn new things better. Don't students want to have a good memory? #Person1#: Of course. I didn't know that. I only know exercise makes bodies stronger. I should take some exercise then. Do you have any suggestions? #Person2#: Well, do what you like to do. It can be anything. Jogging, doing aerobics, going bicycling, and playing ping-pong. Absolutely anything. Doing three or more workouts a week is good for you. But remember to do some stretches first. #Person1#: Oh, I know. Thank you.

#Person1# asks the secrets of #Person2# looking energetic and happy. #Person2# suggests #Person1# doing exercises like jogging, doing aerobics, and so on and reminds #Person1# to do some stretches first.

doing exercise

train_12428

#Person1#: Isn't it a nice day? #Person2#: It really is. #Person1#: It seems that it may rain today. #Person2#: Hopefully it will. #Person1#: How come? #Person2#: I like how clear the sky gets after it rains. #Person1#: I feel the same way. It smells so good after it rains. #Person2#: I especially love the night air when it rains. #Person1#: Really? Why? #Person2#: The stars look so much closer after it rains. #Person1#: I really want it to rain today. #Person2#: Yeah, so do I.

#Person1# and #Person2# both like rainy days and they hope it will rain today.

rainy weather

train_12429

#Person1#: Dad, can I have a pet? I did what you said and passed all of my exams. #Person2#: Then I guess you get to have a pet. Do you know what you want? #Person1#: I want a dog. My friend Mindy's dog just had puppies and she said I can have one. #Person2#: You know who will be responsible for feeding and cleaning and all of that stuff? #Person1#: I know, I know. I will do it all by myself. #Person2#: Have you figured out the costs involved with feeding and caring for it? #Person1#: Yes. It will cost me about $ 50 a month. And I make a little more than that already. #Person2#: Sounds like you've done your homework. I think you're ready for this.

#Person1# wants to have a pet and #Person2# agrees after #Person1# figures out the costs and responsibility of keeping a pet.

keeping a pet

train_12430

#Person1#: Hello, is this housekeeper? #Person2#: Yes ma'am, may I help you? #Person1#: This is room eleven-seven and we have just checked in. #Person2#: Yes? #Person1#: Our room hasn't been cleaned up yet. So would you send one of your housekeepers to clean up our room? #Person2#: Oh, yes, ma'am. We'll come right away then. Your room number and your name, please. #Person1#: Our room number is eleven-seven and my name is Terry Chen. #Person2#: Thank you. Would you hang up and wait?

Terry asks #Person2# to send a housekeeper to clean up the room they have just checked in.

housekeeping

train_12431

#Person1#: Oath, I think I broke my leg. #Person2#: Here, sir, sit down in this wheelchair. #Person1#: Thanks. #Person2#: The doctor will be with you in a moment. I just need to ask you a few questions. #Person1#: All right. #Person2#: Name, age and date of birth, please. #Person1#: John Taylor, 32, May 23, 1970. #Person2#: Health insurance company and policy number? #Person1#: I don't have it. #Person2#: What? #Person1#: I don't have health insurance. #Person2#: Well, this is going to be a very expensive broken leg, Mr. Taylor. #Person1#: Ohhhh!

Mr. Taylor broke his leg and #Person2# finds that Mr. Taylor doesn't have health insurance.

seeing a doctor

train_12432

#Person1#: Red restaurant. Do you want to make a reservation? #Person2#: Yes, I'd like to book a table for two this evening. #Person1#: At what time? #Person2#: 7:30. By tho way, I would like a table next to the window. #Person1#: No problem, sir.

#Person1# books a table for two at Red restaurant.

restaurant reservation

train_12433

#Person1#: What are you guys doing over there? #Person2#: What do you mean, Janice? #Person1#: I'Ve been waiting for a response on the Blake Building design for nearly two weeks. #Person2#: I'm sorry, Janice. But we'Ve been waiting on the client. It's out of our hands at the moment.

Janice waits for a response but #Person2# says it's out of their hands.

waiting

train_12434

#Person1#: Linda? Is that you? I haven't seen you in ages! #Person2#: Hi George! It's good to see you! #Person1#: What have you been up to? #Person2#: I just opened up my own business not long ago. #Person1#: Good for you! What are you doing? #Person2#: I'm a professional party planner here in the city. I do catering and all that. #Person1#: I knew some day I would be able to profit from your love of fun! #Person2#: Well, I don't know about the profit part yet. But I am really having fun!

Linda tells George that she becomes a professional party planner in which she has lots of fun.

friend greeting

train_12435

#Person1#: I have never done this before and don't know where to begin as far as making an offer on this house. #Person2#: Hi, just be relaxed. Leave the details of making the offer up to me. Now, please tell me. What were you thinking you should offer? #Person1#: All I know is that I absolutely must have this house! And I think I shall pay three hundred and fifty thousand dollars or more. #Person2#: It is best to start a little low on the first bid to allow for a counter-offer. How about offering three hundred and twenty thousand dollars? #Person1#: I hope that the owners aren't insulted by that offer. #Person2#: Your offering price is not out-of-line. The owners will either take it or make a counter-offer. #Person1#: Does it usually take very long for the owners to get back to you with an acceptance? #Person2#: It usually doesn't take very long for owners to respond to an offer. #Person1#: Should I be in touch with my bank to tell them to get the loan papers ready? #Person2#: The only thing you should do now is relax. You already are pre-qualified for your loan.

#Person1# wants to buy a house. #Person2# suggests starting low on the first bid to allow for a counter-offer but #Person1# worries that it will take very long. #Person2# says it won't.

house offer

train_12436

#Person1#: Hello. I need to speak with Allan Cartwright. #Person2#: This is he. May I help you? #Person1#: I certainly hope so, I am about to stop doing business with your office. #Person2#: I'm very sorry, Madam. Can you tell me what the problem is over the phone or would you like me to go to your office?

#Person1# wants to stop doing business with Allan. Allan wonders why.

stop doing business

train_12437

#Person1#: What time is our connecting flight? #Person2#: Let me check. Oh, oh! It's at 3:25. #Person1#: Wow, that's cutting it close! That means we only have 25 minutes to make the connection! What gate is it at? #Person2#: It's at. . . gate 14. #Person1#: Oh, great! That's at the other end of the terminal! #Person2#: OK, so here's the plan ; When we land, run to gate 14! #Person1#: I'm be right behind ya!

#Person1# and #Person2# talk about their flight and gate number. They run to catch the flight.

connecting flight

train_12438

#Person1#: May I help you? #Person2#: Yes, I'm looking for a job as a clerk typist in English. #Person1#: I'm Mary Kelly. May I ask your name? #Person2#: My name is Zhuang Lingy. How are you, Miss Kelly? #Person1#: I'm glad to meet you, Mr. Zhuang. Sit down, please. #Person2#: Thank you, Miss Kelly. #Person1#: What are your qualifications for being a clerk typist? #Person2#: I can type 120 words a minute and I take shorthand at 80 words a minute. #Person1#: Would you be willing to take a typing and shorthand test? #Person2#: Yes, I would. #Person1#: Your typing and stenography are pretty good. Would you be interested in applying for the job? #Person2#: Yes, I'd like to give it a try. #Person1#: All right. You need to have an interview with our manager, Mr. McBride. Let's go to his office.

Mary Kelly is looking for a job as a clerk typist in English. Zhuang Lingy asks her to take a test and is satisfied with her.

job applying

train_12439

#Person1#: Good evening, sir. Are you Mr. Jim Stewart from the States? #Person2#: Ah, yes, that's right. #Person1#: Glad to meet you. Mr. Stewart. I'm the guide from Pacific Tour Agency. My name is Zhang Hua. #Person2#: Hello, I was just looking for the guide . #Person1#: I'm always at your service, sir. By the way, did you have a pleasant trip? #Person2#: Not bad. But I've made too many flights these days. I could hardly remember how many take offs and landings I've been through these three days. I think we all feel a bit tired. #Person1#: Well, shall we go to the hotel right now? I've already made a reservation for you. #Person2#: Wonderful. I'm eager to take a sauna as soon as possible. #Person1#: So we must get you to the hotel as soon as possible. I hope to see you refreshed and revitalized tomorrow morning, as we are going to visit the Great Wall. #Person2#: I'm sure we will. Actually, we are looking forward to seeing the great wonder.

Zhang Hua picks up Mr. Jim Stewart and asks him about the trip. The hotel reservation has been made and they will visit the Great Wall after the night rest.

local guide

train_12440

#Person1#: Can you tell me how to reach the bank please? #Person2#: Which bank? There are two, the Allied Irish Bank and the Bank of Ireland. #Person1#: I have an AIR pass card and I want to withdraw money from the bank. #Person2#: You need to go to the Allied Irish Bank which is near the local shopping centre, Dunned Stores. #Person1#: How do I get there. I have no knowledge of this area. #Person2#: Cross the road and turn left at the other side. Walk along the footpath until you reach the traffic lights. You will see a shopping centre on the right hand side. Walk across the road and turn right after the shopping centre. Keep going straight for about 100m and the bank is to your left. #Person1#: It sounds very complicated. How far is it from here? #Person2#: It's not so complicated. It's about five minutes walk from here. I can draw a map for you if you wish. #Person1#: Oh, I would really appreciate that. By the way will I be going North or South? #Person2#: You will be going northwards. You are now in the the Western part of the city and the Allied Irish Bank is situated in the North East. Here's a rough sketch of the area.

#Person1# is asking #Person2# the way to the Allied Irish Bank when #Person1# wants to withdraw some money. #Person2# draws a map for #Person1#.

asking the way

train_12441

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

#Person2# wants to deliver a package and uses a seven-day service with #Person1#'s help.

package delivery

train_12442

#Person1#: Your wife told me that you eat out four or five times a week, I really envy you! #Person2#: Don't envy me! It's for business. In fact, I'm sick and tired of restaurant food! Sometimes, I just prefer a home-cooked meal.

#Person1# envies #Person2# eating outside but #Person2# prefers home-cooked meals.

eating outside

train_12443

#Person1#: Dad, can I go to a movie with Sharon? #Person2#: Yeah, sure, but wait. Weren't you supposed to get a report card sometime this past week? #Person1#: Well, oh yeah. Can I call Sharon now? #Person2#: Uh-hum. You didn't answer my question. Did you receive it or not? #Person1#: I love you Dad! You're the best! #Person2#: Don't try to butter me up. I can guess that your answer means that you didn't do well in some of your classes? #Person1#: Well, my English teacher is soooo boring, and he blows up every time someone talks. #Person2#: In other words, you're not doing so well? #Person1#: Uh, a C ... minus. #Person2#: Oh. Well, how are you doing in your Spanish class? You said you liked that one. #Person1#: Well, I do, but I forgot to turn in a couple of assignments, and I had problems on the last test. All those verbs tripped me up. I get them all mixed up in my head! #Person2#: Okay, and what about algebra? #Person1#: Ah, I'm acing that class. No sweat. #Person2#: Oh! #Person1#: Can I go now? #Person2#: And how are you doing in history? #Person1#: Oh, that's my favorite class. Mr. Jones is always passing out candy if you know the answers to his questions. #Person2#: Great. Now, I have a bright daughter with tooth decay. #Person1#: Ah, Dad. Can I go now? #Person2#: You can go if you answer my history question. How old am I? #Person1#: Uh, fifty-five? #Person2#: Fifty-five! You just failed a math and history test at the same time! #Person1#: Dad ... #Person2#: Well, okay, but you need to come straight home from the movie, and you need to practice your clarinet. #Person1#: Oh, I forgot about that grade? #Person2#: What? #Person1#: Gotta run, Dad.

#Person1# wants to go to a movie with Sharon. #Person2# asks for #Person1#'s report card and finds #Person1# didn't do well in some classes. #Person1# makes excuses for that. #Person2# agrees that #Person1# can go to the movie but asks #Person1# to come straight home from the movie and to practice the clarinet.

class grade

train_12444

#Person1#: Hello. #Person2#: Hi, Tom. This is Diana from the creative writing class. #Person1#: Oh, hi, Diana. What's up? #Person2#: Well, I have a new project which I thought you might be interested in. I'm setting up a writer's group, you know, a support group for people who are trying to get published. #Person1#: Well, how would it work? #Person2#: We get together once a week. I've already arranged for a meeting room in the library, and then we share what we were working on and offer each other some advice. #Person1#: I could use some advice. I'm working on a short story that I'd like to get published in the Campus Literature Review. You've done that, haven't you? Didn't I see a poem of yours in the last issue? #Person2#: Yes, I was so excited to finally see my work in print. It was presented three times. You just have to keep trying if they turn you down. #Person1#: Well, I'm sure the group could help me, but I don't know how much I can contribute. I'm just starting out. #Person2#: That's OK. I know from your comments in class that you will be a valuable member. We will get someone more experienced to help us, too. #Person1#: Sounds great. You can definitely count me in.

Diana asks Tom to join their newly established writer's group to support people who want to get published. Tom asks how it works and thinks he could use some advice so he decides to join it.

writer's group

train_12445

#Person1#: Are there any changes in this morning's program? #Person2#: No, we'll go to Collin's garage sale; he has many books for sale. #Person1#: There're so many books for sale in a flea market near this street, too. Why don't you go there? #Person2#: What is a flea market? #Person1#: It is not that different from other markets except that the goods there have been used before. #Person2#: Are there any good books? #Person1#: Of course. If you're lucky, you can find some rare and old ones. #Person2#: It sounds like a good place and we should go there.

#Person2# wants to go to Collin's garage sale but changes mind to the flea market after hearing #Person1#'s suggestion.

flea market

train_12446

#Person1#: Here we are, guys, I'm going to stop by Bergner's first. I might just get lucky today. Who knows, some of their dresses might be on SALE. #Person2#: Bergner's? #Person3#: It's a fairly well-known department store. Sort of like Penny's. They've got some quality stuff. Wanna check it out? #Person2#: Why not. #Person1#: I need to get something for Lisa's birthday. She's into name brands. Any suggestions? #Person3#: A Gucci handbag or Calvin Klein T-shirt might be nice. Designer perfume is another option. Which reminds me! I have a 15% discount coupon for Lerner's and Penny's. I hardly ever shop at Lerner's, as I'm not that big on women's clothing. And I rarely shop at Penny's, so go ahead and use the coupons if you can. Here they are. #Person1#: Thanks a lot, Will. That's really very thoughtful of you. #Person3#: My pleasure, Ma'am! #Person1#: Oh no! I was supposed to give Liz a buzz an hour ago! Hope I have a quarter. #Person3#: Need a nickle? #Person1#: Actually, I don't have anything but pennies in change. Does any of you have a dollar in change? #Person2#: Sorry, I don't, but I do have 35 cents on me. Will that be okay for the phone call? #Person1#: Great! I really appreciate it.

#Person1# goes to Bergner's discounted dresses first and then goes to Penny's after hearing #Person2# and Will's words. Will gives #Person1# a coupon to help #Person1# choose a gift for Lisa's birthday. #Person1# borrows 35 cents from #Person2#.

department store shopping

train_12447

#Person1#: You must be very busy these days. I heard you are responsible for the meeting arrangements this time. It can be the most important meeting for our company this year. #Person2#: Sure it is. I am up to my ears as time expressed. #Person1#: Do we still use the conference room in the same hotel as last time? You remember? I like that one. #Person2#: If we were in the same conference room, I would not work late these days. That conference room has been booked out. This time our boss wants to hold the meeting in our company. So everything has to be rearranged and checked, like tables, chairs, mean tacks, podium, audio and visual equipments and even the lunch menu. #Person1#: Good preparation will improve the effectiveness of the meeting. I am sure that your hard work will pay off.

#Person2# has been working late to rearrange and check everything in the conference room for the important meeting. #Person1# thinks the hard work will pay off.

meeting arrangement

train_12448

#Person1#: So it looks like we start selling in the U. S. next year. #Person2#: Did Mr. Lin put you in charge of marketing? #Person1#: He's still not sure whether he wants to put me in charge, or whether he wants to hire an American. But even if he hires an American, I'll probably be transferred to our American office. #Person2#: Where will it be? #Person1#: We aren't sure yet. Maybe L. A. I think L. A. would be the best idea. #Person2#: Is it because of trade negotiations that we can start selling in the U. S. ? #Person1#: Yes, the recent agreements between the two governments have changed everything. Now we have the right to sell in America at a much lower tariff. It's going to be good. We can compete more directly with them. #Person2#: Great. #Person1#: Our computers have a high level of quality now. We can demonstrate it. And our prices will be good. So I think it will really be worthwhile. #Person2#: You seem excited about it. #Person1#: Well, you know I studied marketing in America. So maybe the thought of going back there to promote our brand is kind of exciting to me. I'd love to be part of the team. #Person2#: Do you honestly think we can compete though? All the computer giants are there. #Person1#: Yes, I do. I think we can compete. I think we can make a name for ourselves. It will be hard at first. But if we develop a good advertising campaign, I think we can break into the market. #Person2#: The company will have to choose a good advertising firm. And then there's the problem of quality. How do we convince American buyers that our quality is good? #Person1#: It takes some time. Because even if the quality is high, people won't accept a high tech product unless they recognize the name. Name recognition is crucial. #Person2#: Well, I hope it all works out, John. I think if you're part of the team, things will go well. But you know we'd all miss you here. So I won't say I'm happy to think that you're leaving. #Person1#: That's very nice of you to say. But if we set up an office there in the States, maybe you could try to become part of it. #Person2#: Me? No way. I'm dedicated to the company, but I'm not going to leave Taiwan. I'm happy here.

John tells #Person2# he may be transferred to the American office because of the new trade negotiations. John is excited about it because John studied marketing in America. John thinks they can compete with computer giants with high quality. John thinks maybe #Person2# could try to work in the States but #Person2# is not going to leave Taiwan.

American office

train_12449

#Person1#: The Johnsons are on their way back. You remember them, don't you? #Person2#: Johnson? I can't place them. #Person1#: We met them in Bermuda last May. #Person2#: They've completely slipped my mind. #Person1#: The couple with the dogs, think back. #Person2#: No, I don't recall a thing about them. #Person1#: Well, I've invited them for brunch. #Person2#: Hmm, I must be getting absent-minded.

#Person2# cannot remember the Johnsons no matter how #Person1# describes them.

recall

train_12450

#Person1#: Are you ready to order now, sir? #Person2#: Yes. #Person1#: Would you like an appetizer? #Person2#: Yes. I'd like a crab cocktail. #Person1#: Would you like some soup first? #Person2#: Very well. #Person1#: What kind of soup would you like? #Person2#: I want egg soup. #Person1#: Have you decided on anything? #Person2#: I'd like to have some meat. #Person1#: How about stewed-fried steamed pork? #Person2#: No, thank you. #Person1#: Are you interested in today's special? #Person2#: What is it? #Person1#: Twice cooked spicy pork slices. #Person2#: OK. Let me try it. #Person1#: Anyfhing else? #Person2#: No, thank youB

#Person2# orders a crab cocktail, egg soup, and spicy pork slices with #Person1#'s help.

order food

train_12451

#Person1#: I went shopping without my umbrella yesterday morning. #Person2#: Yesterday morning was beautiful I thought the sunning was going to continue. #Person1#: So did I. that's why I didn't take my umbrella. I got cold in the rain in the afternoon. It was raining cats and dogs. #Person2#: I know. I could not believe it when I got hit by that storm. It was pouring with rain all afternoon. #Person1#: We really have some mysable weather sometime. I wish I would live somewhere which were sunning all year round. #Person2#: If it was sunning all year round there would be drought. You probably would not like it either. #Person1#: I guess you are right. Maybe I just wish the weather could be a little more predictable. #Person2#: The weather forecasters are not good at predicting the weather would be like. Our weather is so changeable.

#Person1# didn't take the umbrella when the sun was good in the morning but it rains all afternoon. #Person1# likes predictable weather and #Person2# says the weather is changeable.

weather

train_12452

#Person1#: May, could you bring this note to Professor Li for me today? #Person2#: Sure, no problem. Asking for leave again? You have been absent from class five times this semester. #Person1#: I know. But attending Miss Li's class is just waste of time. No more than one third of her students will go to her class. #Person2#: I agree that Miss Li doesn't teach so well. Most students either sleep or do other things in her class. #Person1#: Yeah, my boyfriend plays the video game every time in class with me. Or I chat with my friends through text messages. #Person2#: Fortunately her class is just an elective course, not as important as compulsory courses. #Person1#: Right, so we must spare some time to attend selective courses. #Person2#: But isn't it too impolite to be absent? #Person1#: What can I do? I have things to do in Students' Government. #Person2#: Oh, I thought you just gave an excuse on this note. #Person1#: Sometimes I will try various excuses. But this is my last time asking for leave. Or I will have a bad record. #Person2#: Yeah, besides, your credit will be deducted. That is kind of serious. #Person1#: I have been absented from many classes this semester just because of my work in the Students' Government. #Person2#: You can't write with one hand and draw with the other. #Person1#: I am thinking about quitting my job in the student government. But before that, I must do my job. Bye. Don't forget about that note. #Person2#: You can count on me.

#Person1# asks May to hand a leaving note to Professor Li because of student government work. They both think Professor Li doesn't teach well and students always do their own things in the class. #Person1# will not aks for leave again in order not to have a bad record.

ask for leave

train_12453

#Person1#: My word, you do look ill! #Person2#: I'm quite out of thoughts recently. #Person1#: You seem to have something on mind. Promise me, go to see the doctor right now. #Person2#: I'm worrying about my exam. #Person1#: A piece of cake. You'll be successful.

#Person1# comforts #Person2# who is worried about exams.

look ill

train_12454

#Person1#: You don't look very happy. What seems to be the problem? #Person2#: I've got to write a long composition for my English class and I just can't come up with any idea and it's due tomorrow. #Person1#: That shouldn't be too difficult. Remember those pictures you were showing me last week. The ones from your voyage last winter. #Person2#: Sure, I've got them here some place. #Person1#: Why don't you write about your impressions of the pyramids in Egypt and camel ride you took? #Person2#: That sounds like a good idea. I can also tell about our visit to North Africa, the Holy Land and all of the historical places we visited. #Person1#: Well, now that you're feeling better about this. I think I'll be on my way. I've got to finish my composition too. #Person2#: Thanks for your help. Once I get organized, it won't be so difficult.

#Person2# cannot come up with ideas when writing composition and #Person1# advises #Person2# to write about #Person2#'s impressions of the pyramids in Egypt and the camel ride.

composition writing

train_12455

#Person1#: Excuse me. You are Mr. Green from Manchester, aren't you? #Person2#: Yes, I'm glad you recognized me. #Person1#: A man with white hair and a beard, isn't that how you describe yourself in the telex? So it's easy to spot you in any crowd. Let me introduce myself. I am Tan Ling, source manager of Yellow River Import and Export Corporation. How do you do? #Person2#: How do you do? #Person1#: Well, Mr. Green, do you have any unaccompanied luggage? #Person2#: No. I always travel with this bag or with small suitcase only. #Person1#: Let's go then. This way to the front door. Let me carry your bag. #Person2#: No, I wouldn't dream of letting a lady carry things for me. Surely I'm not so old as that yet. #Person1#: Of course not. You look young and energetic in spite of your white hair, Mr. Green. #Person2#: Thank you. I'm glad to hear that. #Person1#: The car is waiting outside to take us to the hotel. I reserved a suite for you at the Phoenix, one of the biggest in Dublin. #Person2#: Do you mean one of the largest suite or one of the biggest hotel? #Person1#: Actually, both the hotel and the suite are rather big. But the biggest ones aren't always the best ones. #Person2#: Quite true. #Person1#: Mr. Green, just wait till you see the suite. You can change it for a better one if you don't happen to like it or move to another hotel if you like.

Tan Ling picks Mr. Green up who is easily recognized by white hair and a beard and will take him to the hotel. Tan reserves a big suite for him at the hotel.

pick up someone

train_12456

#Person1#: Mister Ewing said we should show up at the conference center at 4:00 o'clock, right? #Person2#: Yes, he especially asked us not to be late. Some of the people from our east york branch office are coming, and he wants to make a good impression on them. How are you getting there? #Person1#: I was thinking of taking my car, but I think I'm just going to take the underground, because there is construction on the highway. What about you? #Person2#: I'll be taking the underground as well. Why don't we go together? I've been to the conference center only once, and I'm not sure if I can find my way around there.

#Person1# and #Person2# plan to take the underground together to the conference center because Mr. Ewing asks them not to be late.

conference center

train_12457

#Person1#: How can I help you today? #Person2#: I would like to rent a car. #Person1#: Let's see what we can find. We have a large car, a mid-size car and a small car for you to choose from. What size are you looking for? #Person2#: I'll be traveling in the city alone, so a small car is OK. How much is that a day? #Person1#: A small car is $40 a day. How long will you be renting the car? #Person2#: 5 days. #Person1#: OK. Can I see your driver's license and a credit card? #Person2#: Sure, here you are. #Person1#: Would you like me to put the charge on this card? #Person2#: That will be fine.

#Person2# rents a small car for 5 days with the help of #Person1#.

rent a car

train_12458

#Person1#: You look a bit unhappy today. What's up? #Person2#: Well, my mom lost her job yesterday. #Person1#: I'm sorry to hear that. Well, I heard that the registered urban unemployment rate reached 4% this year and more than half are women. #Person2#: Supply is outstripping demand in the job market and women are in a disadvantageous position in general. #Person1#: Yes, it's true. What is she going to do? #Person2#: Well. She is thinking of doing some household cleaning or babysitting in the community. #Person1#: That's not bad, it could be a short-term alternative. Your mom can look for another job when the market improves. Things will workout eventually. #Person2#: I just hope she won't feel depressed. #Person1#: How about searching for information on jobs on the internet? #Person2#: That's a good idea, thank you.

#Person2#'s mom lost her job. #Person2# hopes mom won't feel depressed. #Person1# suggests #Person2# searching for information on jobs on the internet.

job losing

train_12459

#Person1#: Mom, I'm flying to visit uncle Lee's family next Saturday. Should I pack my bags today? #Person2#: Yes, I think so. #Person1#: OK. What clothes should I take? I know it's hot there. #Person2#: Yes, but it rains a lot. You can borrow an umbrella or a jacket if it's wet. Just pack some T-shirts. #Person1#: OK. And who is meeting me at the airport? #Person2#: Well, uncle Lee and aunt Wong will be busy, but your cousin Susan can pick you up.

#Person1# asks for #Person2#'s idea of packing the bag when visiting uncle Lee's family next Saturday.

baggage pack