Table of lessons
Lesson 1 : Hello
S.= Sue
(Susan) - P.= Phil
(Philip)
 S.: Hello Phil.
P.: Hello Sue. How are you?
S.: Fine. And you?
P.: I'm fine too.
S.: Oh, a photo of you and Joe in a boat.
P.: Yes.
S.: It's a nice boat.
P.: Yes. It is nice.
As nice as pie.
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Lesson 2 : Family photos
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip)
S.: More photos?
P.: Yes. This is my family.
S.: Is this your daughter?
P.: Yes. It's Wendy, my daughter.
S.: How old is she?
P.: She's four.
S.: She's very pretty.
P.: And this is my son, Tim. He's seven.
S.: Oh, he's like you. Is this your wife?
P.: No, it's a friend. This is Jan, my wife.
S.: She's very pretty too.
Like father like son.
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Lesson 3 : England and Scotland
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip)
S.: Where's Jan from?
P.: Scotland.
S.: Oh, my father's Scottish. Are you Scottish too?
P.: No, I'm not. I'm from London.
S.: So your children are half English and half Scottish?
P.: That's right.
S.: So am I. My mother's from the north of England and my father's from Glasgow. Is Jan from Glasgow?
P.: No, she isn't. She's from Edinburgh.
S.: Edinburgh's a lovely city.
Home sweet home.
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Lesson 4 : A friend
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip)
S.: Who's this?
P.: Oh, that's Nick, Nick Johnson. A friend. He can speak five languages.
S.: Really?
P.: And he can play six musical instruments.
S.: Wow! That's very impressive! Is he a musician?
P.: No, he's an artist.
S.: Oh. Is he married?
P.: No, he's divorced. You're very interested in Nick.
S.: Yes, I am. He's very good-looking.
P.: Well, I can introduce you, if you like.
S.: All right. When?
A friend in need (is a friend indeed).
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Lesson 5 : Making plans
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip)
S.: Can Nick speak Italian?
P.: No, he can't. He can speak French, Spanish, German and Hindi. And English of course.
S.: Wow! What languages can you speak, Phil?
P.: Only English. What about you?
S.: A bit of French and a bit of Italian. Well, when can I meet him?
P.: Tomorrow if you like. We can go to the pub. Nick's always at the pub on Thursdays.
S.: Oh that's really great.
Tomorrow is another day.
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Lesson 6 : A change of plan
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip)
S.: Phil, phone.
P.: Right ... Hello? Oh, hello, Nick ... Yes, she's here ... Oh, okay ... Never mind ... No I can't make it ... Yes, okay ... No, Jan's in Scotland with the kids until the tenth ... Right, see you then. Bye ... Nick can't make it tonight.
S.: Oh, what a shame. What about next Thursday?
P.: No, I can't make it then. Can you come on the seventh? It's a Saturday. Nick and I are both free then.
S.: Yes, I'm free on the seventh too.
P.: Right. Well, we can meet at the Royal Oak.
S.: Oh, can't we meet here?
P.: Er, yes, if you like. About eight o'clock?
S.: Yes, that's fine.
Better late than never.
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Lesson 7 : More about Nick
P.: Oh, hello, Sue. You're early. I'm not ready.
S.: That's okay. I can wait.
P.: The pub isn't far. It's fifteen minutes on foot or we can take a bus.
S.: Oh, we can walk.
P.: Right. I'm ready.
S.: So, Nick's an artist. Is he rich?
P.: Well, he isn't really rich but he lives in a lovely big house. Er, what else can I tell you about Nick? He's thirty-two. He's not very tall. Um, he likes good food, wine. He loves his car. It's a Porsche, a red Porsche 911.
S.: Mm, very nice.
Eat, drink and be merry.
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Lesson 8 : Meting Nick
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip) - N. = Nick (Nicholas)
P.: Well, here we are.
S.: Mm, it's very nice in here. Can you see Nick?
P.: No, I can't. Oh yes I can. Look, he's over there. In the green jacket ... Hello, Nick. This is Sue.
N.: Hello, Phil. How are you? Hello Sue. Pleased to meet you. Can I get you a drink?
S.: Yes please, an orange juice.
N.: What about you, Phil?
P.: A pint of bitter for me.
N.: Right then ... There you are.
S.: Thanks. I like this pub.
N.: Yes, it is nice. It's one of my favourite pubs.
P.: Oh, there's Carol. I want to have a word with her. Excuse me, you two. Back in a minute.
Two's company (three's a crowd).
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Lesson 9 : Getting to know Nick
S.= Sue (Susan) - N.= Nick (Nicholas)
N.: Do you work with Phil?
S.: No, I'm in computers.
N.: Oh, so how do you know Phil?
S.: We go to the same squash club.
N.: Oh, do you play squash? I can play squash but I prefer tennis. I'm lucky, you see. I'm good at all sports.
S.: Oh, really?
N.: Yes, but of course for me art is more important than sport. I'm an artist, you know. Are you interested in art?
S.: Well, yes, I am. I like ...
N.: People aren't really interested in art. How many people go to exhibitions? Do you?
S.: Not often, but ...
N.: Of course an artist is ...
Beauty is only skin deep.
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Lesson 10 : A boring evening
S.= Sue (Susan) - P.= Phil (Philip)
P.: So, what do you think of Nick?
S.: He's awful. I think he's rude and conceited.
P.: Oh, poor old Nick.
S.: He's a real bore. He talks about himself all the time. He's only interested in one thing - Nick Johnson.
P.: Don't you think he's funny?
S.: No, I don't. He's just boring. And he drinks like a fish.
P.: Yes, he drinks a lot.
S.: He drinks too much. I really don't like him.
P.: Well, he likes you. He wants to see you again. He thinks you're interesting and attractive!
S.: Too bad. I'm not interested.
It takes all sorts (to make a world).
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Lesson 11 : A phone call
N.= Neil - K.= Karen
N.: Hello.
K.: Yes, hello. Er, my name's Karen Jones. It's about the flat.
N.: Oh yes. Well, actually it's a house not a flat.
K.: Oh right. Well, can you tell me a bit about it?
N.: Sure. It's fully furnished. It's £50 a week plus electricity. There are three bedrooms and we all share the kitchen and the bathroom.
K.: Yes, I see. Er, can I come and see it?
N.: Yes. You can come round any evening.
K.: What about tonight? About eight o'clock?
N.: Yes, that's fine.
K.: Er, what's the address?
N.: Oh, 15 Shipley Road. It's near the library.
K.: Okay. See you this evening then.
An Englishman's home is his castle.
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Lesson 12 : Asking the way
K.: Excuse me please. Can you tell me the way to the library?
S.: The library? The library isn't open at this time of day.
K.: Yes, I know. Actually it's Shipley Road I want. It's near the library.
S.: Shipley Road? Oh yes. Now then. Are you on foot?
K.: Yes.
S.: Well, go down to the traffic lights and turn left. Then you go straight on for about oh, a hundred yards and you come to a small roundabout. You can't miss it. Well, Shipley Road is one of the roads off the roundabout. The first or the second I think. It's about ten minutes from here.
K.: Thank you very much.
S.: You're welcome.
All roads lead to Rome...
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Lesson 13 : Looking over the house
N.= Neil - K.= Karen
K.: Hello, I'm Karen.
N.: Oh hello. Come in. My name's Neil by the way. Well, we can start downstairs. This is the living room. Er, it's a colour T.V.
K.: Mm, it's a very nice room.
N.: This is the kitchen.
K.: Uhuh. Is there a washing machine?
N.: No, but there's a launderette just around the corner. That's Vicky's room. She's not in at the moment. She's a nurse.
K.: Oh yes?
N.: The other bedrooms are upstairs ... That's my room and this is the bathroom.
K.: Oh, there's a shower. That's good.
N.: Yes, and this is the other bedroom. There's plenty of cupboard space and it's a new bed.
K.: Uhuh. Well, yes, I like it.
N.: Okay. Well let's go downstairs and have a cup of coffee and we can talk about it.
Cleanliness is next to godliness.
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Lesson 14 : A new flatmate
N.= Neil - K.= Karen
N.: What do you do by the way, Karen?
K.: I work in a bank. What about you?
N.: I'm a teacher. So, er, well, if you decide to move in you pay a month's rent in advance and you give a month's notice when you want to leave. We've got one rule: no smoking in the rooms we share. Of course you can smoke in your own room.
K.: I don't smoke so that's no problem.
N.: Er, what else? We've got a rota for the housework but we're fairly casual about it. What else can I tell you?
K.: Nothing really. Well, I think it's all very nice. Can I take it?
N.: Yes, certainly. Welcome!
K.: Thanks. Well, when can I move in?
N.: It's up to you. The room's free now.
K.: What about next Friday?
N.: Yes, that's fine. No problem.
There's no place like home.
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Lesson 15 : Talking about the new flatmate
N.= Neil - V.= Vicky
N.: I've got someone for the other room.
V.: Oh really? Male or female?
N.: Female. She seems very nice. Friendly. Her name's Karen. She doesn't smoke.
V.: Oh good, that's lucky. What does she do?
N.: She works in a bank.
V.: When can she move in?
N.: On Friday.
V.: That's good. Then she's got the weekend to settle down.
N.: Mm. We can take her to the sports centre on Sunday.
V.: Yes, okay. Have you got a key for her?
N.: No, but I can get one tomorrow.
V.: I hope she's got some good C.D.'s. I'm sick of the ones we've got.
N.: Yeah, so am I.
The more the merrier.
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Lesson 16 : Moving in
N.= Neil - K.= Karen - V.= Vicky
N.: Hello Karen. Can I help?
K.: Oh hello, Neil. That's kind of you. Can you carry that box? It's very heavy. It's full of books.
N.: Where do you want them, in the living room or in your room?
K.: Oh, in the living room, I think, if that's okay.
N.: Right. What else can I do?
K.: Can you take that suitcase? It's full of clothes. It's not very heavy.
N.: Sure. Anything else?
K.: Er, is there somewhere I can put my bike?
N.: Oh yes. You can put it in the shed in the garden. Vicky puts hers in there. Come and meet her. She's in the kitchen ... Vicky, this is Karen, our new flatmate.
V.: Hello Karen, nice to meet you. Welcome to the house. If there's anything you need don't hesitate to ask.
K.: Thanks.
Many hands make light work.
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Lesson 17 : A nice quiet evening
N.= Neil - K.= Karen - V.= Vicky
N.: Oh, there you are, Karen. Are you all sorted out?
K.: Yes, more or less. I'm glad it's Saturday tomorrow. I need the weekend to recover.
V.: Well, now you can sit down and have a nice cup of tea. We can get fish and chips later and watch a film on the box.
K.: What's on tonight?
N.: No idea, but the programme's in the paper. Where is the paper, Vicky?
V.: Uh, it's under the teapot.
N.: Right, here we are. Now, let's see. Well, there are two films - a Western, "High Noon" with Gary Cooper or a musical comedy, "Singing in the Rain".
V.: Well, now that there are three of us we can have a democratic vote. Karen?
K.: Well, I like Westerns.
N.: Great! "High Noon" then. Hard luck, Vicky.
If you can't beat them, (join them).
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Lesson 18 : Saturday morning
N.= Neil - K.= Karen
N.: Good morning, Karen. Sleep well?
K.: Mm. Like a log. It's very quiet here.
N.: Yes, it is. Now, what about breakfast? There's bread in the breadbin, butter and milk in the fridge and cereal in that cupboard. Help yourself.
K.: Thanks. I must do some shopping this morning. Where's Vicky?
N.: She's at work. She's on the early morning shift this week so she leaves the house at five o'clock.
K.: Oh, rather her than me. What time do you leave?
N.: About quarter past eight. But not at weekends of course. Don't you work on Saturdays, Karen?
K.: Only every other Saturday. Not today. Mm, this is lovely jam. Is it home-made?
N.: Yes, Vicky's mother makes it.
K.: It's delicious. Oh, how often do the buses go, Neil?
N.: There's one every twelve minutes. In theory.
The early bird catches the worm.
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Lesson 19 : Small talk
V.= Vicky - K.= Karen
V.: Have you got any brothers and sisters, Karen?
K.: No, I'm an only child, but I've got fourteen cousins.
V.: Do you see them often?
K.: Well not very often, only at Christmas and weddings and things like that.
V.: Mm. Oh, before I forget. Neil and I usually go to the sports centre on Sundays. Do you want to come with us tomorrow?
K.: Yes please. What time?
V.: We usually leave here at half past nine.
K.: What time does the swimming pool open?
V.: Ten o'clock on Sundays. You need a swimming cap.
K.: Oh, I haven't got one. Perhaps I can buy one at the sports centre.
V.: I can probably lend you one.
K.: Oh, right, thanks.
V.: Well, I'm off to bed now. See you in the morning.
K.: Yeah. Goodnight.
Charity begins at home.
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Lesson 20 : Telephone for Karen
V.= Vicky - K.= Karen
(The phone rings)
V.: Hello ... No, this is Vicky, one of her flatmates. Yes, just a minute please ... Karen! It's for you.
K.: OK here I am ... Who is it?
V.: I don't know.
K.: Hello. Karen speaking ... Oh, hello Dave ... Yes, I'm fine ... Yes, it's really nice ... No, not tonight ... No, I'm not free on Saturday either, I'm afraid ... Well, I don't want to make plans for next week yet ... Look, Dave, I can't talk now. I'm in a hurry ... Okay, bye ... Oh, he's so boring! I can't stand him.
V.: That's pretty obvious! (The phone rings)
V.: Hello ... Yes, of course. Here she is. It's your mother.
K.: Hello, Mum ... Yes lovely ... No, I don't need anything, thanks ... Yes, of course, you can come whenever you like ... Yes, okay, see you then. Love to Dad ... Right. Bye.
There are plenty more fish in the sea.
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Lesson 21 : A visitor from abroad
A.= Ann - P.= Peter
A.: Here's a letter from Corinne. Her plane arrives at ten past eleven on the fifteenth. That's next Tuesday. Can you pick her up at the airport?
P.: Who on earth is Corinne?
A.: Joanne's daughter. You know. My friend Joanne, right? Lives in France, remember? Her daughter Corinne is coming to stay with us for a couple of weeks.
P.: Oh yes, I remember but isn't her name Coco?
A.: That's her nickname. Her real name's Corinne.
P.: Oh I see. Well, I'm not working on Tuesday so I suppose I can meet her. What does she look like?
A.: Well, she's quite tall, slim. She's got short brown hair, brown eyes. I've got a photo of her somewhere. She's very smart.
P.: She sounds typically French. How old is she?
A.: Oh she must be seventeen or eighteen, I suppose.
P.: What's her English like?
A.: Perfect. She always speaks English with Joanne.
A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.
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Lesson 22 : Meeting Corinne
C.= Corinne - P.= Peter
P.: Excuse me. Are you Corinne Leblanc?
C.: Yes. I am.
P.: Hello, I'm Peter, Ann's husband. I'm afraid Ann's working this morning.
C.: Oh hello, Peter. Pleased to meet you. It's very nice of you to come and meet me.
P.: Oh that's all right. It's a pleasure. Let me take your suitcase.
C.: Perhaps we can find a trolley. It's rather heavy.
P.: Good heavens! So it is! It weighs a ton. What on earth have you got in here?
C.: Bottles of wine for you and Ann.
P.: Aha! I don't mind carrying it then. The car's just over there. It's the blue Rover.
C.: Is Ann working this afternoon as well?
P.: No, she's off this afternoon. She's coming home for lunch.
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
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Lesson 23 : Meeting Ann
A.= Ann - C.= Corinne - P.= Peter
P.: Well, here we are. Come on in. Oh, Ann's here.
A.: Hello, Corinne. It's lovely to see you again.
C.: It's lovely to be here.
A.: Your room is upstairs. Follow me. Peter can bring your suitcase later. That's the bathroom, there's the toilet and this is your bedroom.
C.: Oh, it's a beautiful room.
A.: I'm glad you like it. Now let's see, towels, coat hangers in the wardrobe... I think there's an extra blanket in this drawer ... Yes, there it is. You can turn the heating up or down like this, okay? Clockwise for up and anticlockwise for down. Have you got everything you need?
C.: Yes thanks, I think so.
A.: Well, don't hesitate to ask if you want anything else. Is Joanne expecting you to phone?
C.: Yes, I would like to give her a quick ring if that's okay.
A.: Of course. The telephone is downstairs in the hall. You can dial direct. It's 010 33 1 for Paris.
Home is where the heart is.
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Lesson 24 : Changing money
A.= Ann - C.= Corinne - B.= Bank Clerk
A.: Would you like to do anything in particular this morning, Corinne?
C.: Yes, I'd like to go to a bank!
A.: Okay. Well, we can go into town together.
(In the bank)
B.: Good morning.
C.: Good morning. I'd like to change some French francs, please.
B.: Traveller's cheques or cash?
C.: Cash. I've got 3,800F. How much is that in pounds?
B.: Well, the exchange rate is 10.69 francs to the pound so that gives you ... £355.47 minus the five pounds standard charge. So that's £350.47.
C.: £350.47. All right.
B.: How would you like it?
C.: I'd like ten fives and the rest in twenties, please.
B.: Certainly ... There you are.
C.: Thank you. Goodbye.
B.: Goodbye.
Money doesn't grow on trees.
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Lesson 25 : Toothache
C.= Corinne - P.= Peter - R.= Receptionist
C.: Can I take an aspirin from the bathroom, Peter?
P.: Yes, of course. What's the matter? Headache?
C.: No, a terrible toothache.
P.: Would you like me to make an appointment for you with our dentist?
C.: Well, I don't really want to go to a dentist here. I'd rather wait until I get back to France.
P.: Why? Why wait?
C.: Well, you wouldn't like to go to a French dentist, would you?
P.: That's not the point. Our dentist is really very good.
(Talking to the dentist's receptionist)
C.: Good afternoon. My name's Corinne Leblanc. I have an appointment with Mr. Winslow at quarter past three.
R.: Pardon? Can you say your name again, please?
C.: Corinne Leblanc.
R.: How do you spell your surname?
C.: L.E.B.L.A.N.C.
R.: Oh yes. Well, would you like to take a seat in the waiting room?
Better the devil you know (than the devil you don't know).
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Lesson 26 : A charming dentist
C.= Corinne - P.= Peter
P.: Hello. How do you feel?
C.: Better, but my mouth is still numb. You're right about your dentist. He's marvellous and he's also very good-looking.
P.: Yes, Ann thinks so too. Personally I prefer his receptionist. Now, can you eat anything?
C.: Not for a couple of hours. I mustn't chew on that side.
P.: Well, I think Ann's going to make you some soup.
C.: Oh, lovely. Perhaps I can give her a hand.
P.: I hope you're not going to sit in the kitchen gossiping about Bob Winslow.
C.: Peter, you're not jealous, are you?
P.: What? Me, jealous? You think I'm jealous of him just because he's handsome, rich and successful?
C.: Don't forget charming, intelligent and witty.
P.: Ah, yes. I see. Well, I'm glad you're so impressed by a British dentist.
There's no smoke without fire.
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Lesson 27 : A lift to town
A.= Ann - C.= Corinne - P.= Peter
A.: I'm going to the post office. Does anyone want anything?
P.: I'd like some stamps, please.
A.: How many do you want?
P.: Two books, please. First class.
C.: Are you going into town, Ann?
A.: Well, I'm not actually going into the centre of town. Why? Do you want a lift?
C.: Yes. If you don't mind. I want to buy a couple of magazines and do a bit of window shopping.
A.: Well, I can drop you by the bank. Is that any good?
C.: Yes, thanks. That's fine. I'm going to see if I can get some ideas for presents. One of my friends has got a birthday soon. I want to send her something typically British. Any ideas?
P.: A cassette of God Save the Queen? A hundred tea-bags? A bulldog? The Union Jack?
C.: Thanks, Peter. You're a great help.
Beggars can't be choosers.
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Lesson 28 : At the post office
A.= Ann - PO.= Post Office Assistant
A.: Good afternoon. I'd like three air mail letters please and I'd like to send this parcel to New Zealand.
PO.: Air mail or surface rate?
A.: Well, I want it to arrive by the middle of October. It's for my nephew's birthday. How long does surface rate take?
PO.: About three months, so it's not going to get there until the end of October.
A.: How much would it be by air?
PO.: Er, £14.80 by air.
A.: And surface rate?
PO.: £5.15
A.: Mm, surface rate then. I'm not going to send it by air. It's too expensive. It doesn't really matter if it's a bit late.
PO.: Okay. Anything else?
A.: Er, yes. I also want two books of first class stamps, and a £10 phone card, please.
PO.: Right. There you are. That's £22.20 altogether, please.
Time is money.
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Lesson 29 : A pub lunch
A.= Ann - C.= Corinne - P.= Peter
A.: Peter and I are both free for lunch today. Would you like to have lunch in a pub, Corinne?
C.: Mm, that sounds like a good idea.
A.: Well, I think the easiest thing is to all meet in the pub. The Red Lion in the High Street.
(In the pub)
P.: Corinne, I'm over here. Ann isn't here yet. But we can order. She always has a ploughman's lunch.
C.: What is a ploughman's lunch, Peter? I can never remember.
P.: Well, basically it's bread and cheese. Then you get some salad and pickles and things with it. It's quite good here. Are you going to have that?
C.: No, I don't think I want that. What are you going to have?
P.: I fancy the home-made soup followed by steak and kidney pie with chips.
C.: Mm. I think I'm going to have that too.
P.: What do you want to drink, Corinne? How about a lager?
C.: Yes please, half a pint for me. Mm, I'm hungry. I'm looking forward to this.
Enough is as good as a feast.
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Lesson 30 : A ticket to Stratford
C. = Corinne - B. = British Rail employee
C.: I'd like a second class return to Stratford.
B.: That's six pounds twenty ... Thank you.
C.: The next train is at ten past nine, isn't it?
B.: Yes, that's right.
C.: Which platform does it go from?
B.: Platform four.
C.: Oh, right and can you tell me the times of the trains to come back this evening, say, after six o'clock.
B.: Six twenty-three. Six fifty-five. Seven forty.
C.: Is that the last one?
B.: No, there's another one at eight fifteen. Last one at nine twenty-five.
C.: What time does the seven forty get in?
B.: Eight twenty.
C.: Is it direct?
B.: They're all direct except for the six fifty-five - change at Newtown.
C.: Thank you very much.
Knowledge is power.
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Lesson 31 : Barry and Teresa
B.= Barry - T.= Teresa
B.: Hello. Anyone home? It's me.
T.: We're upstairs, in Simon's room ... Hello. You're back early.
B.: This afternoon's meeting was cancelled.
T.: That's nice. Were you very late this morning?
B.: Actually I was only ten minutes late in the end.
T.: Oh good. I was worried. We don't want Daddy to get the sack, do we, Simon?
B.: Hello, Simon. Are you pleased to see your Daddy? What are you doing? Is Mummy reading you a book?
T.: Yes. He's tired. We were in the park for most of the afternoon. It was lovely, really hot and sunny.
B.: Good. Oh, by the way, there's a lovely old-fashioned rocking horse in the toy shop next to the office. I'm sure Simon would love it for his birthday. Can you meet me for lunch tomorrow and we can have a look at it together?
T.: No, I can't. Your mother's coming round for lunch tomorrow.
B.: Oh yes. What a shame. Sometime next week then.
T.: Yes, okay. Monday's a good day for me.
Blood is thicker than water.
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Lesson 32 : A visit from Grandma
G.= Grandma - T.= Teresa
T.: Look, Simon, here's Grandma come to see you.
G.: Hello, my poppet! Give Grandma a kiss. Oh, what a big boy you are now!
T.: Mm, nearly one already. Doesn't time fly!
G.: Oh yes. It seems only yesterday that Barry was only one. I remember his first birthday so well. We invited all the neighbours' children to his party. There were fifteen children, plus their mothers! Are you going to have a party for Simon?
T.: Well, a couple of his friends from play group are coming round for tea, if you can call that a party.
G.: Mm, well, no. That's hardly a party, is it, dear?
T.: I don't think he'd enjoy having too many children round.
G.: Oh, Barry loved it! But then he was an exceptionally sociable child and such a clever little boy! I started to teach him to read when he was only three and he learned very quickly.
T.: Mm. Well, I think it's better for them to learn to read at school with all the other children.
G.: Do you, dear? Well, you may be right.
T.: Yes, well I'll go and put the kettle on.
Least said (soonest mended).
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Lesson 33 : A working father
B.= Barry - J.= Jane - P.= Patricia
J.: Barry, can you give me a printout of the sales figures for last February... Hey, Barry, wake up! What's the matter with you this morning?
B.: Oh, sorry Jane. I can hardly keep my eyes open. I only slept about three hours last night - Simon's teething. We had to get up six times in the night. It's the third night running. We're both exhausted.
P.: Oh, yeah. It's awful when they're teething.
J.: You should just leave him to cry. If you ignore him, he'll soon stop.
B.: He's rather difficult to ignore. He's got incredible lungs. Anyway, Teresa would never agree. She thinks he should be picked up every time he cries. Actually I must say I tend to agree.
J.: Well, just don't let it affect your work.
B.: I'm sure it won't last much longer.
P.: Don't you believe it. It can last for months. My eldest cried every night for ten months.
B.: My God. I'd never survive that long.
P.: You get used to it. Remember, the first month is the worst.
B.: So I can look forward to twenty-seven more really bad nights. Great.
J.: Hey, come on, Barry. I need those sales figures.
Spare the rod (and spoil the child).
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Lesson 34 : The babysitter
C.= Cathy - B.= Barry
(The doorbell rings)
C.: Hello.
B.: Hello, Cathy. Come on in. We're nearly ready. Simon's in bed. He went out like a light. Teresa took him to play group this morning and we've been in the park all afternoon so he didn't have a nap. He was really tired so I don't think he'll wake up.
C.: He doesn't usually wake up.
B.: Well, the thing is, he's teething at the moment. If you hear him crying you can give him a bottle. Teresa's left one ready in the kitchen. Er, this is the telephone number in case you need it.
C.: Right.
B.: There are biscuits and things on a tray in the kitchen. You know where the tea and coffee are, so help yourself. Oh, er, I'm terribly sorry, Cathy, but I'm afraid the telly's not working properly. The picture's very fuzzy.
C.: That's okay. I've got loads of homework to do.
B.: Anyway we won't be very late. We'll be back about midnight probably.
Better safe than sorry.
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Lesson 35 : A visit to the doctor’s
T.= Teresa Freeman - D.= Doctor
D.: Good morning, Mrs. Freeman.
T.: Good morning, Doctor.
D.: Now then. What seems to be the matter with this young man?
T.: He's got a very bad cough, Doctor. I think his ears are hurting him too because he keeps touching them and crying and he's off his food.
D.: Uhuh. Has he got a temperature?
T.: No, I don't think so.
D.: Well, can you undress him and I'll have a look ... Can you hold his hands, please? Thank you ... Yes. You can put his clothes on again now. Well, there's nothing to worry about. He's got a slight infection in his right ear. I'll give you a prescription for some drops. I don't think he needs antibiotics. It should clear up pretty quickly.
T.: Is it all right if I take him to play group?
D.: No, avoid taking him out if you can. It's nothing catching but you should keep him warm and quiet for a few days. Make an appointment for the end of the week and we'll see how he's getting on. Of course if there's any problem before then give me a ring.
T.: Yes, of course, Doctor. Thank you.
An apple a day (keeps the doctor away).
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Lesson 36 : Inviting friends
B.= Barry - T.= Teresa
T.: By the way I've invited Linda and Dennis round for a meal on Friday night.
B.: Not this Friday?
T.: Yes. Why?
B.: "Citizen Kane", which I've never actually seen, is on T.V. on Friday.
T.: Well, never mind. You can tape it.
B.: Yes, I suppose so.
T.: Dennis said they've just bought a new board game. They're going to bring it round to play.
B.: What is it?
T.: Er, they did tell me, but I can't remember what it's called. Apparently it's all the rage in America.
B.: It's not that thing about famous people, is it?
T.: I've no idea. They didn't say what it was about.
B.: Mm. Well, I hope it's better than the last one. That was the most boring game, I've ever played in my life. I'd rather play cards, or Scrabble, or something.
T.: Suggest that, then. I've found a nice recipe for a vegetable curry, which I want to make for them.
B.: Oh good, we haven't had a curry for ages.
Once bitten, (twice shy).
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Lesson 37 : A car-boot sale
T.= Teresa - G.= Gail
G.: Hello, Teresa. Come in. What a lovely jumper. It really suits you. Where's Simon?
T.: I left him with his grandparents. They offered to have him for the morning so I'm making the most of it.
G.: What would you like, tea or coffee?
T.: I don't mind. Whatever you're making.
G.: Excuse all this junk. Kevin's Scout Troop is organizing a car-boot sale so we thought we'd try and get rid of a few things. The kids have got so many toys they don't play with anymore.
T.: You know I've never been to a car-boot sale.
G.: Really? Oh you must come. They're good fun. We've never taken stuff to sell before but we often go to have a look. Sometimes you find real bargains.
T.: What sort of things do people sell?
G.: Oh, all sorts of things. Books, toys, furniture, clothes, even plants - you name it.
T.: How much do you pay to take part?
G.: Well, it varies. The Scouts are asking for £10.
T.: Mm. I don't think we've got a car load of things we don't want but I'll come along and have a look.
G.: Yes, do. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
Nothing ventured, (nothing gained).
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Lesson 38 : News of friends
B.= Barry - T.= Teresa
B.: Hello. Is Simon in bed?
T.: Hello. No. He's ready for bed but I kept him up so you could see him. He's playing with his cars.
B.: How is he today?
T.: Oh, he's much better. He seems fine now.
B.: Right. I'll go up and see him then. Shall I read him a book and put him to bed?
T.: Yes, please. His favourite book is "Spot" at the moment. Read him that one ...
T.: Okay?
B.: Yes. Mm. That smells good. What is it?
T.: Chicken casserole ... I got a letter from Lucy Flint this morning. Did you ever meet her?
B.: Yes, I met her a couple of times.
T.: Well, she's engaged to a pilot. They're going to get married sometime in the summer.
B.: Oh yes? Were there any other letters?
T.: Just a gas bill. Oh and Chris phoned to find out whether we're going up to the Edinburgh Festival. I said we'd probably give it a miss this year.
B.: Yeah, it'd be a bit difficult with Simon.
T.: Anyway, he asked me about that Bed and Breakfast place we stayed at. I said you'd phone him back.
The way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
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Lesson 39 : A birthday present
B.= Barry - G.= Grandma
(The phone rings)
B.: Hello?
G.: Hello, Barry dear. I went to the Early Learning Centre today looking for a birthday present for Simon. I just couldn't decide what to buy him so I thought perhaps you could advise me.
B.: Well, Mother, I'm afraid Simon is still at the stage where he's just as likely to play with the wrapping paper as the present, so I wouldn't worry about it too much.
G.: Oh, but I'd like to get him something special for his first birthday. I couldn't decide between a traditional teddy bear, a beautiful wooden Noah's Ark and a very nice music set with drums and a xylophone. What do you think?
B.: Well, we can rule out the music set for a start and his godmother has just bought him a teddy bear.
G.: Oh I see. That doesn't leave me much choice then, does it? It will have to be the Noah's Ark. Or perhaps something more educational. What do you think? ... Barry? Barry? Oh, we've been cut off. How annoying!
Don't look a gift horse in the mouth.
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Lesson 40 : Having friends round
T.= Teresa - B.= Barry - L.= Linda - D.= Dennis
D.: Hello. Sorry we're a bit late. They're doing some roadworks on the Ashford Road and we got stuck in the tailback.
T.: Oh, yes, I got caught there the other day. Oh, what gorgeous flowers! You shouldn't have!
B.: Let me take your coats ... What will you have to drink?
L.: A small whisky, please, Barry.
D.: Just a tonic for me. I'm in training.
T.: In training? In training for what?
D.: You have in front of you a future participant in the London Marathon.
B.: You're not serious, are you?
D.: I certainly am. You know I go running with some blokes from work? Well, we decided it would be a good idea to train for the Marathon. Why don't you join us, Barry? Get rid of that spare tyre.
B.: What spare tyre? Speak for yourself! I'll have you know I'm in perfect shape.
T.: When is it, Dennis?
D.: The first Sunday in April. We're going to run for charity. If you don't join us then at least you'll sponsor us, I hope.
T.: Oh yes. Of course we will.
The spirit is willing (but the flesh is weak).
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Lesson 41 : Wedding invitations
Mrs = Mrs Flint - Mr = Mr Flint
Mrs: Oh hello, dear. I'm glad you're in early. I'm writing the invitations and I need your advice.
Mr: Oh yes?
Mrs: Now, the problem is that Richard and Lucy don't want to invite more than fifty people and I've got a list of fifty-seven people here that I really must invite. John, are you listening?
Mr: Yes, dear.
Mrs: Well, put the paper down. What do you suggest? I don't know what to do.
Mr: Look, it's Lucy and Richard's wedding. If they only want fifty people then you'll have to cross off seven more.
Mrs: But I just can't decide who to cross off.
Mr: Here, give it to me. I'll sort it out. Let's see ... Mrs Lyle, well, we don't want that old witch, for a start.
Mrs: John! Mrs Lyle is not an old witch.
Mr: Well, if you don't want my help then let me read the paper in peace. Ask Lucy and Richard to sort it out.
It's easier said than done.
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Lesson 42 : Mother and daughter
F.= Mrs Flint - L.= Lucy
F.: Is Richard coming round tonight, Lucy?
L.: No, not tonight. He's working late.
F.: Well then, will you help me to finish the invitations. I don't know who to cross off my list.
L.: Mm, okay, if you like. Aren't you playing bridge tonight?
F.: No, Betty's visiting her sister this week so I haven't got a partner.
L.: Where's Dad? Isn't he having any dinner?
F.: No, dear, he's watching a football match on T.V. so he's just having a sandwich.
L.: (Yawns) Oh, dear, I think I'll have an early night tonight.
F.: You work too hard. Never mind, you'll be on your honeymoon in just five weeks. A fortnight in the sun is just what you need.
L.: Yes. I'm looking forward to it I must say.
F.: Will you have some apple pie?
L.: No, thanks Mum. I'll just have a coffee.
F.: Now then, dear. About these invitations ...
Two heads are better than one.
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Lesson 43 : A difference of opinion
Mrs F.= Mrs Flint - Mr F.= Mr Flint
Mrs: I can't think why Lucy and Richard won't have gold lettering for the menus. Black makes it look like a funeral, not a wedding. Don't you think gold is more suitable, dear?
Mr: It doesn't matter what I think. Or you for that matter. It's not our wedding. They know what they want. Stop interfering.
Mrs: I'm not interfering, I'm helping.
Mr: Hum, well, there's a very thin line between helping and interfering.
Mrs: Well, really John. I'm working my fingers to the bone for this wedding. I know I won't get any thanks but I resent being criticized.
Mr: Oh, come on, Rachel. You love organizing things. You're having a whale of a time.
Mrs: That's typical of you. You won't do anything yourself so you say I enjoy doing it to salve your conscience.
Mr: Humph!
Mrs: What does humph mean exactly?
Mr: It means I'll be glad when this wedding is over and I can read the paper in peace.
Silence is golden.
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Lesson 44 : Shopping for clothes
S.= Shop Assistant - F.= Mrs Flint
S.: Good morning. Can I help you?
F.: Yes. I'm looking for something to wear to a wedding. My daughter's wedding, as a matter of fact.
S.: Oh yes. Well, I've got some lovely outfits at the moment, very suitable for the bride's mother. Have you got any particular colour in mind?
F.: No, I'd like something cheerful, but not too bright of course. Oh and not yellow or orange. They don't suit me.
S.: I see. What size are you?
F.: Fourteen.
S.: Well, let me show you what I've got.
F.: I like the dress with the co-ordinated jacket.
S.: Yes, it is nice, isn't it? I've got it in pale green or blue too.
F.: No, I prefer the pink. Can I try it on?
S.: Certainly, madam! ... Oh yes, it suits you. You look lovely.
F.: Yes, I like it. How much is it?
S.: The dress and jacket together are £465 (pounds).
F.: Well, yes. I think I'll take them.
A fool and his money (are soon parted).
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Lesson 45 : Wedding presents
F.= Mr Flint - R.= Richard
F.: Oh hello, Richard. Lucy won't be in until later. She asked me to tell you some more wedding presents have arrived. She's put them in the living room.
R.: Oh right. Thanks. I'll have a look at them then ... Oh my God! Have you seen these plates? They're enough to spoil anyone's appetite.
F.: Yes, I'm not too keen myself. Er, I think I'd better warn you that Lucy thinks they're rather nice.
R.: Does she? Well, thanks for telling me. I'll be tactful about them. Look at these sheets! Pink and yellow stripes. I ask you!
F.: Yes. It was the same when Rachel and I got married. I remember one particularly hideous vase that I dropped and broke. Accidently on purpose, you know. We still laugh about it.
R.: How long do you think it will take me to break twelve plates?
F.: If you take my advice you'll drop the whole lot all together. You know, as you're putting them away in the cupboard.
A word to the wise (is sufficient).
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Lesson 46 : Last minute details
F.= Mrs Flint - S.= Secretary - H.= Hotel manager
F.: I'd like to speak to the person responsible for wedding receptions, please.
S.: Just a moment. I'll put you through.
H.: Hello?
F.: Good morning. This is Mrs Flint. You are organizing my daughter's wedding reception in June.
H.: Oh yes. What can I do for you, Mrs Flint.
F.: Well, I've just been in touch with the caterer's and they said they'll deliver the wedding cake to the hotel the day before the wedding. That is on June the ninth. Now, it is extremely fragile and it must be kept in a cool, dry place.
H.: Yes, don't worry, Mrs Flint. We are quite used to dealing with wedding cakes. We have a special storage cupboard. I can assure you it won't come to any harm. I'll take care of it personally.
F.: Will you? Thank you so much. I'm very grateful. And the other thing is: it now looks as though there will be fifty guests, not fifty-seven. I'll phone you to confirm that at the end of the week. Er, I don't think there was anything else.
H.: Fine. Thank you for phoning, Mrs Flint. Goodbye.
Practice makes perfect.
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Lesson 47 : Honeymoon plans
L.= Lucy - R.= Richard
R.: Hello, Lucy. What are you doing?
L.: I'm looking at our honeymoon hotel brochure.
R.: What, again?
L.: Mm. I hope it's as nice as it looks here. I can't believe we're going to be in Bermuda in a couple of weeks.
R.: Yeah. Just think, this time in two weeks we'll be stretched out on the beach in the sun.
L.: I can hardly wait. Carol was green with envy when I told her. She and Mark went to Majorca for a week for their honeymoon and we're going to Bermuda for two weeks.
R.: Well that's one of the many advantages of marrying a pilot. We'll be able to go all over the place. I fancy going to Japan next summer.
L.: That'd be lovely. I haven't really been anywhere. In fact, I've only been on a plane once before. You know, I haven't got my passport back yet. Wouldn't it be awful if it didn't arrive in time!
R.: It will. Don't worry. Anyway, you can always get one from the post-office.
All's fair in love and war.
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Lesson 48 : Last minute panic
R.= Richard - L.= Lucy
L.: I do hope we haven't forgotten anything.
R.: Oh, I'm sure we haven't. Your mum has thought of everything.
L.: I've just got a feeling we've forgotten something vital.
R.: Well, let's think about it. Have you contacted the caterer's about the wedding cake?
L.: Yes. Mum did that. We've organized the cars, the photographer, the organist, the flowers, my dress.
R.: The reception, the rings, presents for the bridesmaids ...
L.: I suppose it's just last minute panic.
R.: Yes. I don't think your mum would forget anything. Oh, by the way, Lucy, have you got something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue?
L.: No, I haven't. I didn't think you'd bother with an old tradition like that, Richard.
R.: Oh, it's not me. It's my mother. She's got an old blue brooch - she said you can borrow it if you like.
L.: That's really nice of her. I'd love to borrow it.
Marry in haste, (repent at leisure).
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Lesson 49 : A quarrel
L.= Lucy - R.= Richard - F.= Mrs Flint
L.: Oh, by the way, Richard, I promised Mrs Evans you'd take her the wedding list tomorrow afternoon.
R.: What? You what? What the hell did you say that for? You know I always play football on Saturday afternoons. You'll have to do it yourself.
L.: I can't. I'm going to the hairdresser's.
R.: Well, give her a ring and say I can't go.
L.: Don't be so selfish, Richard. You can give up your football for once.
R.: No way. It's the only chance I get to do a bit of sport. Come on, Lucy, be reasonable. It's not much to ask.
L.: It isn't much to ask you to do one little thing for our wedding either.
R.: Yes, okay, I will. But not tomorrow afternoon.
L.: You never put yourself out at all. You're the most selfish, self-centred ...
F.: Er, am I interrupting something?
R.: No, I'm just going. (Door slams)
F.: What was all that about?
L.: Oh, mind your own business! (Door slams again)
F.: Well, really!
Actions speak louder than words.
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Lesson 50 : After the wedding
Mr= Mr Flint - Mrs= Mrs Flint
Mrs: Well, John, it's all over. Our little girl is a married woman with a home of her own. Oh, these shoes are killing me! It went very well though, didn't it?
Mr: Yes, it did.
Mrs: I mean everything went well, didn't it? Even the weather. It was a perfect day. And I thought the service was very nice. The vicar is a charming man.
Mr: Yes, he is.
Mrs: The reception was very successful too, wasn't it? A lovely meal and the hotel staff were very pleasant and efficient.
Mr: I should hope so. It cost enough.
Mrs: Wasn't the cake beautiful? Richard's parents are very nice, aren't they?
Mr: Yes, they are. His mother's very amusing.
Mrs: Yes, she is. She really shouldn't wear green with her complexion though. By the way, did you see who caught the bouquet?
Mr: That Australian cousin of Richard's, Linda.
Mrs: Oh, yes. Rather a plain girl. Richard didn't look his best either, did he?
Mr: I gather the stag party was fairly hectic. I reckon he had a hangover.
Mrs: Still, it all went very well, didn't it? ...
You can't take it with you.
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Lesson 51 : Arriving at a hotel
R.= Receptionist - A.= Mr Abernethy
R.: Good afternoon, sir.
A.: Good afternoon. The name's Abernethy. My secretary called you a couple of days ago to make a reservation.
R.: Oh yes, Mr P. J. Abernethy, a single room with bath.
A.: That's me.
R.: And you've booked five nights.
A.: That's right.
R.: Here's your key, Mr Abernethy. Room 409. It's on the fourth floor. There's a lift just behind you.
A.: There's a what just behind me?
R.: Er, an elevator.
A.: Oh, an elevator, right. Uh, I'd like to rent a car while I'm here. Do you have any information about that?
R.: Certainly, sir. I can give you these brochures. They are the three main car-hire firms in Britain.
A.: Oh, that's great. Thank you very much. I'll go up to my room now. Can someone take my bags?
R.: Yes sir, I'll ask the porter to take them up.
A.: Thank you. Oh and I think I'll lie down right away, I have a bad case of jet-lag. So don't put any calls through to my room. Have a nice day!
R.: Er, thank you, sir. You too.
Early to bed (early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise).
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Lesson 52 : In a restaurant
W.= Waiter - A.= Mr Abernethy
W.: Are you ready to order, sir?
A.: I'd like to eat something typically British. What do you suggest?
W.: Well, the traditional Sunday lunch is roast beef and Yorkshire pudding.
A.: What goes with the roast beef?
W.: Roast potatoes, carrots, peas and gravy.
A.: That sounds good to me. I'll go for that. And then, what did you say? Yorkshire pudding for dessert.
W.: Er, no. That's part of the roast beef dish, actually. It's savoury, not sweet.
A.: Oh, I see. Okay, I'm game. I'll try anything once.
W.: For dessert we have trifle or lemon meringue pie, or you can have cheese and biscuits.
A.: Trifle? Now what's that?
W.: It's a layer of sponge cake soaked in sherry then a layer of fruit in jelly topped with custard and whipped cream.
A.: That sounds like a whole lot of cholesterol. I guess I'll skip dessert. I'll just have a cup of black coffee.
W.: Would you like wine with your meal?
A.: No, I think I'll just have water.
One man's meat (is another man's poison).
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Lesson 53 : Tea-time at the hotel
Mrs.= Mrs Cox - Mr.= Mr Cox
A.: Hello there. How are you guys?
Mrs: Oh, hello. We've just ordered a pot of tea. Will you join us?
A.: I'd love to.
Mr: Have you been sightseeing?
A.: Yeah. I sure have. I had a great day. This is a really beautiful city. You have so many lovely old buildings. I took a guided tour on one of those neat double-decker buses this morning. I saw all the sights. The Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, the Crown Jewels, Buckingham Palace and I caught the Changing of the Guard.
Mr: Yes, that's quite impressive, I believe.
A.: You mean you've never seen it yourself?
Mr: Well no, actually, I haven't.
A.: You don't say! Hey, you ought to see that. Really, it's a must. Yeah, and then this afternoon I took one of those big London cabs and the driver was real friendly. He showed me all kinds of things. He told me I ought to visit Madame Tussaud's too. Of course we have one in the States but it'd be kinda nice to see the original one.
Mrs: Mm, I'm sure you'd enjoy Madame Tussaud's.
When you've seen one (you've seen them all).
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Lesson 54 : Hiring a car
C.= Car-hire agent - A.= Mr Abernethy
A.: Good morning. The name's Abernethy, P. J. Abernethy. My hotel called you about renting a car.
C.: Oh yeah. I've already filled in the forms for you. If you could just let me have your driving licence for a minute?... Sign here, please.
A.: Sure... There you go.
C.: Fine... Well, I'll show you the car. This way... Here we are. Er, the switches are pretty clear. Headlights, wipers, horn here and the heating works like this...
A.: It doesn't have air conditioning? Back in the States all the cars have air conditioning. I guess it never gets hot enough here, huh?
C.: Yeah. Uh, lift the gear stick for reverse gear.
A.: You mean it's not automatic?
C.: No. Did you want an automatic? We do have some cars with automatic gears if you'd prefer one.
A.: No, no, that's okay. It's just kinda surprising for me. Almost all cars are automatic back home.
C.: Yeah, well most British drivers prefer manual. Er, it's got a full tank so that should take you about 300 miles. Okay?
A.: Fine. Thank you. I'll be seeing you.
When in Rome (do as the Romans do).
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Lesson 55 : At the Tourist Information Office
C.= Clerk - A.= Mr Abernethy
C.: Good morning, can I help you?
A.: Yes. I believe so. I wanna take a tour to get to see some of this wonderful country of yours. I was told you could give me some information about what to see.
C.: Certainly. Let me give you this map. It's got places of interest marked on it.
A.: Say, that's great. Like what?
C.: Well, castles, ancient monuments, old churches, steam railways, slate mines, all sorts of things.
A.: Fantastic, that's just what I want. Now then, what places would you advise me to visit?
C.: Er, Oxford, Cambridge, Stratford, Stonehenge...
A.: Oh, yeah, well, of course I know Oxford and Cambridge are your famous university towns and Stratford is where Shakespeare was born, right? But what is Stonehenge?
C.: It's one of the most important megalithic monuments in Europe. It's on Salisbury Plain, not far from Salisbury, which has a famous cathedral. You could visit them both on the same day.
A.: Well, I may just do that very thing.
A rolling stone (gathers no moss).
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Lesson 56 : B. & B.
C.= clerk - A.= Mr Abernethy
A.: Now then, the other thing I wanted to ask about was accommodations. Can you help me out with that? I'm getting tired of staying in hotels.
C.: Well, why not try a Bed and Breakfast place?
A.: That's when you stay in someone's home, right?
C.: Yes, that's right. They provide bed and breakfast.
A.: Right. Is that cheaper than staying in a hotel?
C.: Oh, yes. Generally it's somewhere between £15 and £30 a night, including breakfast.
A.: That sounds like the kind of thing I want. What's the catch?
C.: Well, you don't have your own bathroom. You can usually only have breakfast there, not other meals. Er, what else? Oh, you don't usually have your own key so you have to be in at a reasonable hour.
A.: That's okay by me. I guess I can share a bathroom. I'll try that. Do you have a list of these places?
C.: Well, each tourist office has a list for their particular area. But if you're touring around you'll see lots of houses with a B and B sign hanging outside.
A.: Okay. Well, thank you for all your help.
C.: You're welcome. Don't forget your map.
Any port in a storm.
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Lesson 57 : At the petrol station
P.= Petrol pump attendant - A.= Mr Abernethy
P.: Fill'er up, squire?
A.: Uh, I do want to fill it up but the trouble is it's a rental and I forgot to ask what sort of gas it takes. Do you happen to know?
P.: Oh, yeah, this model takes unleaded.
A.: Oh, okay. Go ahead then.
P.: Right... That's £15.75.
A.: Can you give me change from a fifty pound bill?
P.: Oh, yeah, no trouble... There you go, £15.75, 80, £16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and three tens is fifty.
A.: Thank you. Do you think you could clean the windshield?
P.: No sweat. ... Anything else? Check the tyres? The oil?
A.: Yeah, if you could check the tyres as well...
P.: Right. ... On holiday are you?
A.: Yeah. It's my first vacation in three years.
P.: Oh yeah? ... Right, your tyres are okay.
A.: Thank you. How much do I owe you?
P.: Oh, no charge.
A.: Well, thanks. Here, buy yourself a drink then.
P.: Cheers, mate!
One good turn deserves another.
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Lesson 58 : An English breakfast
D.= Mrs Davis - A.= Mr Abernethy
D.: Good morning. Did you sleep all right, dear?
A.: I sure did. It was real quiet.
D.: Yes, most of my guests find it quiet. Now then, what would you like for breakfast?
A.: Well, what can I have for breakfast?
D.: I always do a traditional English breakfast. So that's fruit juice to start with. Then cereal, a cooked breakfast, toast and marmelade and tea or coffee.
A.: That sounds fine. A cooked breakfast. Is that ham and eggs?
D.: Bacon and eggs or sausages and grilled tomatoes.
A.: I'll go for the sausages and tomatoes.
D.: I expect you want coffee to drink, don't you?
A.: Uh, do you by any chance happen to have skimmed milk?
D.: Oh, yes. My daughter's very diet conscious. She won't drink the other kind any more.
A.: Then I'd like coffee with skimmed milk, please.
D.: Right. Now then, would you like me to bring you the morning paper to read? All the other guests have already had breakfast so you won't have any company this morning.
A.: Thank you. That would be very nice.
Health is better than wealth.
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Lesson 59 : At the dry cleaner’s
S.= Shop Assistant - A.= Mr Abernethy
A.: Good morning. I'd like to have this suit cleaned, please. It has a coffee stain on the jacket sleeve, right there.
S.: Oh yes. I see. I'll make a note of it. Here's your ticket. Be ready on Friday afternoon.
A.: Friday afternoon! Why that's three days from now! You mean you can't do it today? I want to wear that suit tonight.
S.: Oh no, it won't be ready before Friday.
A.: Is that normal? I mean, do you always take three days to clean a suit?
S.: Well, some dry-cleaners have a 24 hour service but that's a lot more expensive.
A.: Look, I really need this suit by tomorrow afternoon at the latest because I'm going on a trip. Couldn't you get it done by then?
S.: Well, I'll do my best. Not before four o'clock though. Oh, you've got a loose button here.
A.: Oh, could you sew that on again then, please?
S.: No, I'm sorry, we don't do sewing.
A.: You don't sew on buttons either? People put up with this sort of thing? I can't believe this!
He who pays the piper calls the tune.
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Lesson 60 : Poppy Day
W.= Woman selling poppies - A.= Mr Abernethy
W.: Poppy, sir?
A.: Why are all you people selling poppies today?
W.: It's the eleventh of November. You know, the end of the First World War. Armistice Day. It's to help ex-servicemen.
A.: In that case, I'll take one. How much are they?
W.: Whatever you'd like to give.
A.: Oh, right. Uh, is a pound okay?
W.: Certainly. Let me pin it on your coat for you.
A.: Thank you. Uh, can you tell me where I can find a travel agency? Is there one around here?
W.: Yes, there's one in the shopping mall. Can you see that letter box over there?
A.: You mean that red mailbox? Uh huh.
W.: Well, just next to that there's an entrance to the mall. Go in there and turn left and it's about the fourth shop on the right. I think it's just after Boots. It's quite small, so it's a bit difficult to find. It's next to the Oxfam shop. If you come to a big fountain, you've gone too far.
A.: Right. Thank you. I hope you manage to sell all your poppies. Have a nice day!
W.: Thanks. You too.
Do as you would be done by.
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Lesson 61 : Bonfire night
C.= Cathy - L.= Liz (Elizabeth) - A.= Alan
C.: Children, now please remember, fireworks can be dangerous. You mustn't stand too close.
L.: It's a marvellous guy. Did the children make it themselves?
C.: Well, with a little help from Alan. More wine?
L.: No, thanks. These baked potatoes are delicious, Cathy. (WHOOSH) You must have spent a fortune on fireworks.
C.: Yes. Alan tends to get rather carried away. He bought hundreds of sparklers. He enjoys it as much as the children. (BANG) Oh, those awful bangers. I can't stand the noise. I think I'll go and clear up the kitchen a bit...
In the kitchen
L.: I thought I'd come and give you a hand.
C.: Thanks, but you needn't bother. I'll just stick it all in the dishwasher. I meant to get some paper plates but I just didn't get round to it.
A.: Oh, there you are. Come on. We're having the grand finale.
L.: Oh, okay. Come on Cath. We mustn't miss the grand finale.
C.: Oh, all right. No more bangers though, Alan.
In for a penny, in for a pound.
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Lesson 62 : Christmas is coming
C.= Cathy - L.= Liz
L.: Hello, Cathy. I just popped in to say how much we all enjoyed ourselves last night.
C.: Oh good, I'm so glad. Everyone seemed to be having a good time. Even the adults, but you can never be sure.
L.: What are you doing?
C.: I'm making our Christmas pudding.
L.: Good heavens, aren't you well organised! I haven't even started to think about Christmas yet.
C.: Well, it is November. I always like to get my Christmas pudding done early.
L.: I don't know why you bother. I get mine from Marks and my lot can't taste the difference.
C.: Oh, neither can I. I just enjoy cooking, that's all. I bake a few dozen mince pies and put them in the freezer too. Oh, Liz, I know what I meant to ask you. Now, don't laugh. I'm going to book for the Christmas panto for the kids sometime this week. It's always packed out so you have to book early if you want to get decent seats. Shall I book for your kids too? They're doing Jack and the Beanstalk this year.
L.: Well, yes. That would be nice. Just two tickets though. Tony's too old for that sort of thing now.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
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Lesson 63 : Liz and Paul
E.= Emily - P.= Paul - L.= Liz
E.: It's not fair! It's always me. (Door slams)
P.: What's the matter with her?
L.: Oh, she's making a fuss about having to sleep on the sofa over Christmas.
P.: Whose motor bike is that parked in our drive?
L.: One of Tony's friends'.
P.: (Shouting upstairs) Tony! Turn that music down and tell your friend to move his motor bike. It's blocking the garage and I want to get the car out in a minute. ... Kids! The older they get the more trouble they are!
L.: I seem to have heard that somewhere before... Guess what Cathy was doing yesterday when I went round.
P.: I haven't got a clue.
L.: Making her Christmas pudding.
P.: Oh yes?
L.: Do you think I should make one? I mean, your parents are coming to us this year.
P.: Good heavens no. Mum and Dad won't even notice.
L.: I'm sure your mother will. She always makes her own.
P.: Look, Mum and Cathy don't work. You do. You can't do everything. Hey, why don't you ask Mum to bring one? I bet she'd be delighted.
Too many cooks (spoil the broth).
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Lesson 64 : The morning after
P.= Paul - L.= Liz
L.: Good morning. How was the office party then?
P.: Oh, you know, the usual sort of thing. Everyone got merry, someone produced the inevitable mistletoe. The blokes in the advertising department brought some home-brew. It was the most revolting stuff I've ever tasted in my life. I bet most of the staff will have a hangover this morning. I certainly have.
L.: Serves you right. By the way, have you had your Christmas bonus yet?
P.: No, I won't get it until the end of the month.
L.: Oh, that reminds me, I haven't given anything to the milkman and the bin men. I suppose I ought to give the paper boy something too. How much do you think I should give him? A couple of quid?
P.: A couple of quid! Surely fifty p. is enough?
L.: Well, you can't go far with fifty p. these days. No, I think it'll have to be at least a pound. I suppose we ought to get the Christmas decorations up today. Will you buy a tree if you're going into town?
P.: Hang on. Have a heart. My head's killing me. There's no rush, is there?
L.: Yes, there is. Today's the nineteenth. Only five more shopping days till Christmas.
There's no time like the present.
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Lesson 65 : Tea for two
L.= Liz - S.= Susan (Paul's mother)
S.: Hello, Elizabeth. I hope you don't mind me dropping in like this. I was just passing so I thought I'd pop in to see if you needed anything.
L.: Nice to see you. No, I think everything's under control, thanks. How are you? How's your knee?
S.: Oh, mustn't grumble. It could be worse.
L.: Would you like a cup of tea? I was just about to have one myself.
S.: Yes, I'd love one. Your decorations are lovely. You've got a nice lot of cards too. Have you counted them?
L.: No. Emily started but she got fed up and didn't finish. I think there must be about a hundred.
S.: Well now, what would be the best time for us to arrive on Christmas Day? I'll bring the pudding with me then.
L.: Oh, any time you like really.
S.: Well, say about tennish. Is that too early? I thought I could give you a hand in the kitchen.
L.: Yes. That'd be lovely. Paul tells me you're going on a cruise in the summer.
S.: Yes, that's right. George is retiring at the end of June and we're taking off in July. We've decided to make the most of being retired. Neither of us have done much travelling so we're planning to go all over the place.
L.: Good for you!
You're only young once.
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Lesson 66 : A green Christmas
L.= Liz - I.= Ian
I.: Hello, Liz. Paul said I could borrow your stepladder.
L.: Oh, hello, Ian. Come on in. Paul's out. He's just popped into town to get a tree. He won't be long. We always seem to leave it till the last minute.
I.: What? You're not still buying real trees, are you?
L.: Yes, of course. Why? Don't you?
I.: No, not since we joined the Greens. We've got an artificial one now.
L.: You've got to be joking!
I.: Why? These days they look just like the real thing but they don't shed pine needles all over the place.
L.: Surely real ones are more environmentally friendly than plastic ones?
I.: Not in the long run.
L.: Oh, but they're just not the same. It wouldn't be Christmas without a proper tree.
I.: Well, Mary and I feel that you've got to be logical. If you believe in saving the rain-forests you don't help to destroy trees in Britain.
L.: Mm. True. I'd never thought of it like that before.
Live and let live.
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Lesson 67 : At the hairdresser’s
L.= Liz
Walker - J.= Jan - A.= Andrew
L.: Good morning. I've got an appointment for a cut and blow-dry.
J.: Oh yes, Mrs Walker, isn't it? Would you like to have a look at the style book and choose a style you like? Andrew will be free in a moment...
A.: Good morning, Mrs Walker. Have you found a style which you like?
L.: Yes, I'd like to try something new. Something like this, but with a longer fringe.
A.: Uhuh. A side parting, fairly short at the sides and a bit longer at the back. Okay.
L.: Yes, not too short at the sides though.
A.: Right. Well if you'd like to go with Jan she'll give you a shampoo...
J.: Can you put your head back, please? Is the water warm enough?
L.: No, it's a bit cold actually... That's better.
J.: Shall I use a conditioner?
L.: Yes, please... You're very busy today.
J.: Yes. Everyone wants their hair done before Christmas.
There's nothing new under the
sun.
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Lesson 68 : A white Christmas
L.= Liz - P.= Paul
P.: Hello. Oh, your hair looks nice. It suits you. You should always have it done like that.
L.: Thank you. Perhaps I will. I must put the presents under the tree this evening. I've got something for everyone except your brother. Any ideas?
P.: How about a gardening book?
L.: Oh yes, good idea. I'll have to get it tomorrow then.
P.: You're not going shopping on Christmas Eve, are you? It'll be murder.
L.: I'll have to. I still need a few things. I got Sandra an aerobics video. I do hope she hasn't already got one, and for Jenny I got one of those dolls whose hair grows.
P.: Another doll! She must have at least twenty already!
L.: Don't exaggerate. By the way, the children have asked if we'll take them bowling on Boxing Day.
P.: Yes, okay, why not?
L.: Oh, listen! Carol singers. How nice. It must be the Sally Army. Go and give them something...
P.: Guess what. It's started to snow.
L.: Oh, how lovely! We haven't had a white Christmas for years.
No sooner said than done.
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Lesson 69 : Car problems on Christmas Eve
P.= Paul - L.= Liz
P.: Oh, brilliant! That's all I need!
L.: What's the matter?
P.: Have you got your car keys on you? I've left mine in the ignition. We're locked out of the car.
L.: Oh dear. No. Mine are in my other bag. Never mind, we can call the A.A. They'll sort it out in no time.
P.: Stop being so bloody cheerful about it!
L.: Well, you've got a damn cheek! If it had been me you would have been absolutely furious. It's your fault so don't start swearing at me. Oh, sort it out for yourself! I'm going to catch a bus!
P.: If you leave those parcels there I'm not taking them.
L.: Don't be so bloody-minded!
P.: Well, what's the point of you having car keys if you leave them at home? I didn't want to come out anyway. All this last minute shopping. It's crazy to go shopping on Christmas Eve! I told you that! And I hate driving in the snow.
L.: Oh yes, I might have known it would end up being my fault. That's typical. You can never admit you've done something stupid. Right! I'll take my parcels and I'll get a taxi. Goodbye!
Prevention is better than cure.
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Lesson 70 : Bowling on Boxing day
E.= Emily - P.= Paul - J.= Joe
J.: Hello Paul. I see we both had the same bright idea. Great minds, eh? Are all your lot here?
P.: No, Liz backed out at the last minute.
E.: Hey, Dad, Tony got a strike!
P.: Oh, well done, Tony! Yeah, she said she needed to put her feet up for a bit. There were eleven of us for Christmas dinner. Well, you know, turkey and all the trimmings for eleven people is quite a bit of work.
J.: Eleven? Who was that then? Liz's family or yours?
P.: Mine. My parents came over for the day and my brother and his family are staying with us until tomorrow.
J.: Oh yeah. We went to Mandy's parents' this year.
P.: How did it go? All right?
J.: Oh yeah, it was okay. The kids enjoyed it and that's the main thing. They were up at the crack of dawn to open their stockings, of course.
P.: Yeah, ours too. Did you get snow at your place?
J.: Yes, I reckon we must have had about four inches.
P.: Yeah. It hasn't snowed on Christmas Day since I was a kid. First time our kids have had a white Christmas.
J.: Yeah. Well, if I don't see you again before then, all the best for the New Year.
P.: Yeah, same to you. Cheers, Joe. Love to Mandy.
Great minds (think alike).
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Lesson 71 : A letter from America
1068, East Point Road,
Indianapolis
Dear Stephanie and Martin.
We were delighted to hear from you and can hardly wait to see you all in the spring.
Thank you for the photos of Peter and Debbie.
I've enclosed some photos of Kim and Stuart.
As you can see they've grown just as much as yours!
We'll be arriving in London, England (as Clark says!) in mid-April.
What we are hoping to do is to spend a fortnight or so there visiting my family and showing the children the sights.
I think they are old enough now to appreciate museums etc.
After that we'd like to come on up to you.
So if all goes according to plan we will be arriving at your place sometime during the first week in May.
Would that be okay?
We want to cram in as much as possible in the six weeks we'll be in Britain.
I know Clark has set his heart on a trip up to Scotland to show the children the Land of their Forefathers!
We'll be in touch again by letter before then and we'll phone as soon as we set foot in Britain.
I can hardly wait.
I feel very homesick sometimes.
Love to all the family, Gail.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
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Lesson 72 : Greeting old friends
S.= Stephanie - G.= Gail - C.= Clark
S.: Peter, Debbie! They're here! ... Hello! Welcome to Manchester!
G.: Stephanie! How are you? It's great to see you again.
S.: Fine. It's lovely to see you. How are you?
C.: Couldn't be better. We're all fine.
S.: Come on in. Peter, take the cases, will you? How was the journey up?
C.: We enjoyed it. We never travel by train in the States, so it was a nice change. It was a direct train straight up from Euston so there was no problem.
S.: What would you like to do first, freshen up or have a cup of tea?
G.: Oh, tea first, I think.
S.: What do the children drink?
G.: Coke, if you have it. Otherwise milk or water.
C.: It was so nice of Marty to come and meet us at the station. We could have taken a cab.
S.: We wouldn't have dreamt of it.
G.: It's a lovely house, Stephanie. How long have you been here?
S.: We will have been living here for three years in August. Doesn't time fly! It seems like just a few months.
A change is a good as a rest.
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Lesson 73 : Eating out
M.= Martin - G.= Gail - C.= Clark
M.:
We
thought
we'd
go out
tonight
if
you're not too tired. There's a very good Italian restaurant just around the corner and there's also an excellent Indian place in town if you like Indian food.
G.: The children won't eat anything more exotic than a hamburger, I'm afraid.
M.: Well, we can get a take-away from MacDonalds for the kids, get them a video to watch and go out on our own.
C.: Sounds like a great idea to me. That'll give us a chance to catch up on all your news.
G.: We eat Italian quite often back home so it would be nice to go to an Indian restaurant for a change.
M.: Well, I'll phone and book a table now. (Picks up the phone and dials)... Hello, I'd like to book a table for four for this evening, please. ... Eight o'clock. ... Yes, four people. ...Sterne. ... No, S.T.E.R.N.E. ... Thank you. ... No sooner said than done. They're expecting us at eight. We'll have to leave here about a quarter to. I'll take the kids to get a take-away about seven and pick up a video on the way back.
Variety is the spice of life.
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Lesson 74 : Making plans
S.= Stephanie - G.= Gail - C.= Clark - D.= Debbie - K.= Kim
S.: Would you like to do anything in particular while you're here, Gail?
G.: I know Clark and the kids would love to see a castle.
S.: Oh, good. That's easy to arrange. We'll go to Conway. It's probably the best one to see. It's a couple of hours' drive from here so we can take a picnic and make a day of it.
K.: Great. When was it built? Is it very old?
S.: Well, I'm afraid I can't tell you much about it. I'm sure they'll sell books and brochures there though.
D.: We can go to the library if you'd like to read up about it before we go.
K.: That'd be neat.
C.: Stephanie, may I make a phone call? I'd like to touch base with our friends in Nottingham.
S.: Yes, of course. Go ahead. The code book should be underneath the telephone directory ... Is there anywhere special you'd like to go, Gail?
G.: Yes, there is actually. How far are we from Chester? I'd love to spend a day there.
S.: Oh yes. So would I. I'll come with you. We're not far at all. It's about fifteen minutes by car.
Birds of a feather (flock together).
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Lesson 75 : Preparing a picnic
S.= Stephanie - G.= Gail - C.= Clark
G.: Can I help you with anything, Steph?
S.: Yes. You can tell me if I've forgotten anything. I've packed tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, cold chicken, buttered rolls, ham, cheese, crisps, a flask of coffee and lemonade and coke for the children.
G.: What about knives and forks?
S.: Yes, I've got those too and plates, cups, spoons and a tablecloth. Do you think that will be enough food?
G.: Oh yes. There's plenty there.
C.: Hello there. How are you doing?
G.: Oh, we're all ready. Did you get a car?
C.: Sure did. I took it for ten days but we can extend that if we decide to drive up to Scotland.
S.: Right. Shall we go then? We thought we'd set out early and then we can have a walk along the beach as well. I suppose we'd better take umbrellas.
C.: Really? It looks like it's gonna be a lovely day.
S.: Yes it does, but you can never rely on that in Britain. It could pour down.
C.: You're the boss. I'll just get the camcorder and call the kids.
G.: Get my camera too, will you, Clark?
C.: Sure. Oh, Gail, remind me to buy some postcards, when we get there, will you?
Half a loaf is better than none.
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Lesson 76 : Conversation at a picnic
M.= Martin - S.= Stephanie - G.= Gail - C.=Clark - P.=Peter
C.: This is a wonderful place for a picnic. It really is beautiful countryside around here. It's so green.
G.: Look at the cows and sheep on that hillside over there. They look just like animals from a toy farm.
C.: Mm. Could you pass some of that ham, please, Marty? ... Thanks ... I hadn't realized that Ireland was so close. We'd love to go across for a couple of days before our trip up to Scotland.
M.: Take the ferry from Holyhead, you mean? Yes, we've done that several times. I'm sure you'll like Ireland. It's even greener than here.
P.: Are there any more crisps, Mum?
S.: I'm not sure. Have a look in that bag.
G.: We thought we'd go over on Friday for a long weekend. How about all of us going together?
S.: Well, it would be nice but I've been neglecting the garden far too much lately and Martin has promised to play in a golf tournament on Sunday, haven't you?
C.: Oh, right. Mm. This ham sure is good. Say, we'll have a free place in the car if Debbie or Peter would like to go with us.
S.: Debbie is going camping next weekend. But perhaps Peter would like to go with you. He's never been to Ireland. If you're sure he won't be any trouble.
C.: We'd be delighted to take him.
The grass is greener (on the other side).
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Lesson 77 : At the travel agency
T.= Travel agent - C.= Clark
T.: Good afternoon. Can I help you?
C.: Good afternoon. I'd like to book for the car ferry across to Ireland. The one from Holyhead.
T.: Certainly, sir. When would you like to go?
C.: We'd like to go early in the afternoon on the fourteenth and come back on the seventeenth. So I'd like to book three nights in a hotel in Dublin as well. Can I do that through you?
T.: Yes. No problem at all. That's the fourteenth of this month, is it?
C.: That's right. So it's next Friday, in fact.
T.: Okay. Now then if you'd like to fill in the details of your car and the passengers on this form ... What sort of hotel were you thinking of?
C.: Well, something not too expensive but, you know, decent. Two star, or maybe three star, I guess.
T.: I'd recommend the Shamrock Hotel. It's only a one star hotel but it's very comfortable and the prices are very reasonable.
C.: I'll take your word for it. So, I'll need a double room with an extra bed and a room with twin beds.
Take care of the pennies (and the pounds will take care of themselves).
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Lesson 78 : Buying shoes
C.= Clark - S.= Shop assistant
C.: I'd like a pair of those wonderful English brogues you have in the window.
S.: Could you show me which ones you mean?
C.: Certainly. ... Those brown ones in the middle there.
S.: Oh yes. What size do you take, sir?
C.: Well, I take a size ten back home in the States but I guess you have different sizes here.
S.: Yes, but that's okay. American size ten is a British size nine. ...There you are, sir. ...
C.: Actually, they're kinda tight. Could I try the next size up?
S.: Certainly. ... I'm afraid I haven't got that model in a nine and a half. These are a size ten.
C.: Well I'll try them. ... They feel okay. Yes, they're a good fit. Do you have them in black?
S.: I'll have to check, but I think so.
C.: Well, I'd like to take a black pair as well.
S.: Okay. ... Yes, we do have them in black. There you are. Is there anything else you need? Shoe polish? Socks?
C.: No, thank you, not today. Oh, do you mind giving me an extra carrier-bag for my parcels? I'd appreciate it.
S.: Yes, of course. That's £91.98 then, please.
C.: Can I pay by credit card?
S.: Uh, ... oh yes, we take that one.
If the shoe fits (wear it).
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Lesson 79 : On the way to Ireland
G.= Gail - C.= Clark - M.= Man on bike
C.: I can't see where we are on this map. Gail, could you open your window and ask that guy on the bicycle before we get completely lost.
G.: Excuse me. We're trying to get to Holyhead. Is this the right road?
M.: No, I'm afraid it isn't. It's the A5 you want. Now then, let me think, which is the best way? Well, you'll have to turn round first and then carry on until you come to the next crossroads. Turn left and go down that road until you see a sign for Holyhead. I think it's the third turning on the right, but I can't be sure. Anyway it'll be signposted.
G.: Thank you very much.
M.: That's all right.
C.: Can you remember what he said?
G.: Well, the first bit was turn round and go on as far as the crossroads. I think he said turn left then, didn't he? And then follow the signs.
C.: I wonder if there'll be somewhere to stop for lunch. I'm getting hungry.
G.: There's bound to be a pub or a cafe or something soon. Keep your eyes open, kids.
A miss is as good as a mile.
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Lesson 80 : Boat trip to Ireland
C.= Clark - G.= Gail - I.= Irishman - K.= Kim - S.= Stuart
K.: Look at all those seagulls!
G.: Isn't the sea a lovely colour? That gorgeous blue.
S.: What time do we get there, Pop?
C.: I don't know, son. I'll ask that guy there. Excuse me, can you tell me what time we get into port?
I.: We'll be there in about half an hour. You're American, are you?
C.: Yes, that's right. Are you Irish?
I.: As Irish as they come. Is it your first trip to Ireland?
C.: Yes, it is. My wife's been once before but that was many years ago.
G.: I've never been to Dublin though.
I.: Oh Dublin's a lovely city. You'll love it. Are you staying for long?
G.: No, just three days unfortunately.
I.: Ah, it's not long enough. Never mind, you can always come back again. You have to see Cork and Galway Bay and Connemara and you must kiss the Blarney Stone. What part of America are you from? Not New York by any chance? I have a cousin in New York.
C.: No, we're from Indianapolis. Where are you from?
I.: I'm from Tipperary myself. It's a beautiful place. There's a very famous song about it ...
Seeing is believing.
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Lesson 81 : News
It's eight o'clock and time for the news.
Today's news is read by Alister MacBride.
Here are the main headlines.
In a statement to the House of Commons today the Prime Minister expressed concern over the recent outbreak of violence and riots in prisons across the country.
The teachers' pay dispute, which led to thousands of school children breaking up early for the Christmas holidays, has been resolved.
The two main teacher's unions, the NUT and the NAS/AWT have agreed to accept the latest increases proposed by the government.
British Rail train drivers have announced a twenty-four hour strike starting at midnight tonight.
It is expected to affect one in three trains.
Members of the Royal Family will fly up to Scotland today to spend Christmas together at Balmoral.
The RSPCA have appealed to people not to give animals as Christmas presents.
The Prime Minister, speaking today in the Commons, said that the government were concerned ...
No news is good news.
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Lesson 82 : A news item
N.= News reader - R.= Reporter - M.= Mr Marsh
N.: Yesterday's heavy rain has led to severe flooding in parts of Dorset. Hundreds of people have been evacuated from their homes and are being lodged in church halls and schools. Brian Davies reports.
R.: Well, here in the little village of Stikley most of the local population have had to leave their homes. Police and rescue operations have been under way since the early hours of this morning. Many people were reluctant to leave their homes because of the fear of possible looting. Here with me is local councillor Geoff Marsh. Mr Marsh, when did you leave your home?
M.: Well, my wife left with the kids yesterday evening. And then this morning the police came round in boats with loudspeakers and said that everyone had to leave. There was a good six inches of water in the house when I left and it was still going up.
R.: When do you hope to return?
M.: Well, obviously we're all very anxious to get back and see what the damage is exactly and, well, to start clearing up. But the police say it may be several days before the water goes down completely, so we'll just have to wait and see, I suppose.
It never rains but it pours.
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Lesson 83 : Weather and traffic news
Here is the weather forecast for England and Wales until dawn tomorrow.
Most of the country will be mainly cold.
It'll be a clear day in the south, although fairly cloudy in the north with some rain expected at times and scattered showers throughout the day in the west.
Temperatures around 40° Fahrenheit, 5° Celsius.
The outlook for Sunday is much brighter with most parts of the country enjoying sunny periods in the afternoon.
And now the traffic news.
Bad news for drivers on the southbound carriageway of the M1 approaching Nottingham.
There's been an accident involving a lorry which has spilt its load of waste paper blocking two lanes of the southbound carriageway between junctions 27 and 26 and delays of up to an hour can be expected with a tailback over twelve miles long.
Police say conditions will not be back to normal for at least three hours.
So, avoid that if you can.
Drivers should watch out for the major roadworks on the A5 between Milton Keynes and Dunstable.
A new contraflow has been set up.
There may be delays on the London ...
Bad news travels fast.
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Lesson 84 : Talking about music
G.= Sir Richard Grey - B.= Radio interviewer
B.: It's half past ten and time for the Music programme. Today's guest is Sir Richard Grey, the well-known playwright and novelist. Good morning, Sir Richard.
G.: Good morning, Barry.
B.: You were, I believe, Sir Richard, very much influenced by music in your early childhood?
G.: Yes, that is true. I was lucky enough to belong to a very musical family. My mother used to sing and play the piano and my father, although he didn't actually play an instrument or sing himself, was immensely knowledgeable about music and there was always music in the house. And of course we were all encouraged to play an instrument and to sing as well.
B.: What type of music do you like? Classical?
G.: Oh, classical, of course. But I'm very keen on jazz too. Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and so on. I have to admit that I don't really keep up with pop music though.
B.: Who is your favourite composer?
G.: Well, it's difficult to answer that because I really have so many. But I suppose if I had to choose only one it would have to be Mozart.
B.: Well, let's hear something by your favourite composer...
Music soothes the savage breast.
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Lesson 85 : Working at home
B.= Barbara Smith - R.= Radio interviewer
R.: Good morning. Welcome to the fifth programme in our series, "Trends for Tomorrow". Today we'll be discussing the growing trend of computer operators working from home. In the studio with us today is Barbara Smith. Now, Barbara, you've been working from home for nearly three years now, haven't you? How did it all start?
B.: Well, my company offered the possibility of working at home for a trial period of three months and I decided to take up the offer.
R.: How did most of the staff react? Did everyone want to try working from home?
B.: Well, no. Surprisingly perhaps, a lot of people weren't really interested. The company wanted fifteen volunteers but in fact only nine people applied.
R.: Is it not a fact that most people prefer to get out of the house, see new faces, meet other people, you know, get the chance to chat to people other than the family? They see all that as part of the attraction of a job.
B.: Well, yes, I suppose that's true.
R.: Don't you ever feel isolated yourself?
B.: Well, I suppose I do miss chatting to the other staff in the office, yes. But I'd hate to have to start going in to work again. Waiting for the bus in the rain and that sort of thing. I mean the only...
Necessity is the mother of invention.
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Lesson 86 : Drunken driving
D.= David - P.= Pamela Bailey - T.= Terry Holmes
D.: Good afternoon. Today on "Your Opinion" we'll be talking about the government's latest proposals to curb drunken driving. If you'd like to take part in our discussion the lines are open now. The number is 071 44 57 92 and our first caller is Mrs Pamela Bailey from Yorkshire. Good afternoon, Pamela.
P.: Good afternoon, David. Well I would like to say that I totally agree with the policy of cracking down on drunken drivers. My husband was knocked down by a drunken driver and the whole of the left side of his body is completely paralysed as a result. He used to be a builder so he is unable to work and so far he has received no compensation at all.
D.: How long ago was this?
P.: Three years ago in November.
D.: Yes, I see. And what happened to the person who knocked your husband down?
P.: He got six months in prison, but I mean it's all over now for him and my husband's life is ruined.
D.: Yes, so you would like to see stiffer penalties?
P.: Yes, I would.
D.: Right. Thank you for calling, Pamela. Our next caller is Terry Holmes from Devon. What is your position on this, Terry?
T.: Well, of course I sympathise ...
There, but for the grace of God, (go I).
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Lesson 87 : Learning languages
R.= Interviewer - J.= James Thomas - M.= Margaret Cooper
R.: It's three o'clock and time for "At home in Europe". With me today are James Thomas and Margaret Cooper and we'll be discussing the role that learning foreign languages has to play in the future of Europe... Margaret, the British are notoriously bad at learning languages. Why do you think that is?
M.: Well, I think originally, you know, it was the colonial attitude and then of course more recently it's due to the fact that so many foreigners are learning English there doesn't seem to be the need. I've just spent six months in France and everyone is learning English over there.
R.: Mm. What about the way in which foreign languages are taught in Britain? Do you think that has anything to do with it?
M.: Oh, absolutely. In Holland, for example, they start learning English in primary schools. It's taken very seriously over there. It's about time we took a leaf out of their book.
R.: Yes. James, you speak fluent French and German, don't you? Do you find it a help in dealing with clients?
J.: Oh, yes, most definitely. I mean it is true that a lot of French and German people speak English but even so they really appreciate the fact that you can speak their language. It makes things easier all round. I mean, when there's a meeting ...
Experience is the best teacher.
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Lesson 88 : Capital punishment
R.= Interviewer - P.= Penelope - K.= Kenneth - B.= Bill
R.: Our next question is from Bill Stamford from Newtown.
B.: What does the panel think of the recent increase in terrorist activities and do they agree with the death penalty for acts of terrorism?
R.: The death penalty for terrorists. Penelope, let's start with you. Where do you stand on this?
P.: Well, I personally have no hesitation. I am convinced one hundred per cent that we should bring back the death penalty for terrorists. I mean I can see no justification at all for these people to murder and maim innocent people. (Applause)
R.: So, Penelope's position is very clear on this one. Kenneth, what about you?
K.: Well, I'm afraid I can't possibly agree with Penelope. No civilized society can possibly justify the death penalty for terrorists or anyone else. If you condemn their acts how can you condone putting people to death? It's not logical...
P.: But Kenneth you can't possibly stand by and see innocent children killed and talk about logic. You've got to have some effective deterrent...
K.: But it isn't an effective deterrent. It doesn't ...
Two wrongs don't make a right.
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Lesson 89 : Sports news
Good evening.
Today's Sports News headlines are read by Mike Hatfield.
An easy win for the light blues in this afternoon's Boat Race.
They pulled ahead early on and increased their lead to ten clear lengths at the finishing line.
Blackburn Rovers' captain, Dave Hanley, who is due to retire at the end of the season, was without a doubt the man of the match today.
He scored three goals including a penalty kick in the last few seconds of the game.
That takes his total of goals scored this season up to twenty-seven.
Fans cheered him for a full five minutes after his final winning goal today.
The All-Blacks rugby team beat the England side at Twickenham this afternoon.
The final score was: All-Blacks twenty two, England sixteen with Jones scoring a brilliant try for England in the second half.
Highlights of the game will be shown on BBC1 tonight.
Cricket - in the first innings of the third Test Match in Melbourne today England were all out for three hundred and four and the Australians had just come in to bat when rain stopped play.
And now here are the football results.
League Division One. Everton 1, Tottenham Hotspurs 1; Manchester United 0, Arsenal 2; Blackburn Rovers 3, Chelsea 2 ...
Slow and steady wins the race.
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Lesson 90 : A New Year’s Eve Party
R.= Radio - A.= Alec - C.= Cathy - T.= Tony - J.= Jane - E.= Everyone
C.: Hey, it's ten minutes to midnight, put the radio on someone or we'll miss Big Ben.
R.: Here in Trafalgar Square the crowds are...
T.: I hope everyone has made their New Year Resolutions.
A.: Nobody still does that, surely?
T.: Well, I've decided to stop smoking. In a few minutes I will join the ranks of the non-smokers forever.
J.: Who's going to be the first footer? Alec, will you?
A.: What? No fear. Not me. It's too damn cold out there.
J.: Oh, go on. You're the only tall dark man here.
C.: Turn the radio up again, it must be nearly time now. Hurry up or we'll miss it.
T.: Oh, we've got five minutes yet. Someone give Alec a lump of coal.
J.: Isn't he supposed to have whisky as well?
A.: Yes. I second that. If I'm going out in the freezing cold I deserve a bottle of whisky.
J.: Oh, shut up, Alec. Just do as you're told.
T.: Well, after this drink I won't touch another drop this year.
A.: Your sharp wit never ceases to amaze me, Tony.
C.: Quiet everyone! Big Ben is about to strike. (Big Ben strikes midnight.)
E.: Happy New Year! Happy New Year everyone! Should auld acquaintance be forgot ...
All's well that ends well.
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