A. APPOINTMENTS

1. Making an Appointment

Secretary: Two-four-nine; double eight-double two.

Mr Ivanov: I would like to make an appointment with Mr Jeffries. This is Mr Ivanov speaking.

Secretary: Oh, yes, Mr Ivanov. Good morning. I’ll get his schedule. Are you there?

Mr Ivanov: Yes.

Secretary: When would you like to come, Mr Ivanov?

Mr Ivanov: Tomorrow, if possible.

Secretary: I’m afraid he’s tied up tomorrow. Is it urgent? If it is, perhaps we could fit you in somewhere.

Mr Ivanov: No, it isn’t that urgent. Is the day after tomorrow possible?

Secretary: What time would you like to come?

Mr Ivanov: As late as possible in the afternoon.

Secretary: I’m sorry, that afternoon’s full too. How is Friday afternoon at five?

Mr Ivanov: Yes, that’s perfect, thank you. Good-bye.

2. Making an Appointment

Mr Zonov: Hello. Is this Mr Summerset? This is Mr Zonov speaking.

Mr Summerset: Hello. How are you?

Mr Zonov: Fine, thanks. Pretty busy. How are you, Mr Summerset?

Mr Summerset: O.K. I can’t complain.

Mr Zonov: Glad to hear that. There is something I’d like to talk to you about. Can we meet early next week?

Mr Summerset: Sure, with pleasure.

Mr Zonov: Could you come in my office, say, on Monday afternoon?

Mr Summerset: Let me consult my schedule. Yes, I guess it’ll be all right. What time do you suggest?

Mr Zonov: Suppose we make it 3.30. Will it suit you?

Mr Summerset: Yes, that’s fine.

3. Making an Appointment with a Secretary

Mr Petrov: Hello. May I speak to Mr Ward, please?

Mr Ward: Speaking. Who is it, please?

Mr Petrov: Good morning, Mr Ward. This is Petrov, Mr Gromov’s assistant. Mr Gromov had to fly to Chicago on urgent business last night. He could not see you personally and so he asked me to get in touch with you instead and settle the matter you discussed.

Mr Ward: Sure, Mr Petrov. I’ll tell you what. Could you come over to my office, say, about 4 o’clock? Mr Petrov: Yes, that’s fine for me, Mr Ward. I’ll be there.

Mr Ward: O.K., I’ll be expecting you. And I can give you a ride afterwards.

4. Appointment with a Doctor

Mr Nikolaev: Is that Dr Morton’s office?

Secretary: Yes, sir.

Mr Nikolaev: This is Nikolaev speaking. Could I have an appointment with the doctor in the middle of next week, please?

Secretary: Just a minute, sir: I’ll check his schedule. Will Wednesday be all right?

Mr Nikolaev: Yes, it’s fine. What time, please?

Secretary: Wednesday, at 6 p.m.

Mr Nikolaev: Thank you. Good-bye.

Secretary: Thank you, sir. Good-bye.

5. Appointment with a Dentist

Mr Nikolaev: Good morning. Could I speak to Dr Williams’ secretary, please?

Secretary: Speaking.

Mr Nikolaev: My name is Nikolaev. I would like to have an appointment with the doctor.

Secretary: Is it something urgent, sir?

Mr Nikolaev: Yes, rather. My son needs a dentist.

Secretary: I see. How old is he?

Mr Nikolaev: He is about eight.

Secretary: Can you bring him tomorrow at eleven?

Mr Nikolaev: That’s Thursday, isn’t it?

Secretary: Yes, sir.

Mr Nikolaev: That’s fine. Thank you very much.

Secretary: Good-bye.

6. Confirming an Appointment

Secretary: Hello. May I speak to Mr Smirnov, please?

Mr Smirnov: Smirnov speaking.

Secretary: Mr Smirnov, this is Mr Abbott’s secretary. I’m calling to confirm your appointment with Mr Abbott for next Friday at 4 p.m.

Mr Smirnov: Thank you. I’m looking forward to seeing Mr Abbott next Friday. Will you give him my best regards, please.

Secretary: I will. Good-bye, Mr Smirnov.

Mr Smirnov: Good-bye.

7. Being Unable to Keep an Appointment

Mr Stunns: Hello. Could I speak to Mr Ivanovo secretary, please?

Secretary: Good morning. This is Mr Ivanov’s secretary.

Mr Stunns: This is Stunns, of the Ministry of Transportation. I would like to know whether Mr Ivanov has received an invitation to our Annual Meeting?

Secretary: Yes, Mr Stunns, we have received your invitation, thank you.

Mr Stunns: Is Mr Ivanov coming?

Secretary: No, Mr Stunns, he is not. I am sorry but Mr Ivanov left town and he won’t be back until next week. Haven’t you received our letter informing you that he is not attending the Meeting?

Mr Stunns: No, not yet.

Secretary: We sent it to the Department yesterday afternoon.

Mr Stunns: It’s a pity that Mr Ivanov is not able to be present at our Annual Meeting. Give him my best regards when he returns, please.

Secretary: Thank you, I will. Good-bye.

Mr Stunns: Good-bye.

8. Calling the Maintenance Department

M.D.: Maintenance Department.

Customer: I would like to report the fault of my phone to the operator.

M.D.: What’s wrong with it? Is it quite dead?

Customer: No, not quite. I can’t get a call through. I hear the voice on the other end of the line, but they seem not to hear me. And there is no proper buzz.

M.D.: From where are you talking now?

Customer: From my neighbour’s phone.

M.D.: Give me your neighbour’s telephone number and your own phone number, please. (Customer tells the maintenance clerk his neighbour’s and his own telephone numbers.) Thank you. I’ll get in touch with the switchboard, and call you back. (The telephone rings up in five minutes.) This is the Maintenance Department. Eight-four-two; double three-double two is out of order. We are sending a repair-man tomorrow morning. Sorry, we cannot do anything now. Good-bye.

EXERCISES

I. Read these dialogues and pay attention to telephone phrases.

II. Reproduce these dialogues as close to the text as possible.

III. Practise spelling different names over the telephone.

IV. What would you say in reply to these remarks?

1. This is Mr Slow speaking. I would like to make an appointment with Mr Gorelov. 2. I’m afraid I’ll be tied up tomorrow. Could you suggest an alternative date? 3. There’s something I’d like to talk to you about. When can we meet? 4. I’m afraid we cannot fit you in today but we could recommend you another dentist. 5. This is Mr Fray’s secretary. I’m calling to confirm your appointment with Mr Fray for tomorrow, at 10 a.m. 6. I’m calling to let you know that Mr Bell will not be able to keep the appointment. He is away from London and won’t be back until after Wednesday. We are sorry about this.

V. In what situations would you say the following?

1. Sorry, we cannot fit you in today. 2. Let me consult my schedule. 3. Could you give me an alternative date? 4. I’m afraid Mr Petrov will not be able to keep the appointment. 5. Could I make an appointment with the dentist? 6. I can give you a lift afterwards. 7. We’ve made an appointment for Wednesday tentatively. 8. I’m calling to confirm your appointment with my colleagues. 9. We’re looking forward to seeing you next Sunday. 10. I’d like to report the fault of my phone. 11. The line is completely dead.

VI. a) Make an appointment by phone:

1. with your counterpart; 2. with a doctor; 3. with an engineer from the T.V. repair service; 4. with a dentist; 5. with a friend of yours; 6. with Mr Brody, Sales Manager of a big company.

b) Confirm the appointment by phone.

c) Phone Mr Slow and tell him that you are unable to keep the appointment and give your reason.

Working in groups of two, read the following dialogues aloud.

Dialogue 1

9. A Visit of Diplomats

The Protocol Department arranged a visit of diplomats accredited at Moscow to the Cardiological Centre of the Ministry of Public Health. Here is a talk between a Soviet official and an Australian diplomat concerning the details of the visit.

Mr Ward: Good morning. This is Ward of the Australian Embassy speaking.

Mr Orlov: Good morning, Mr Ward. Orlov speaking. Can I be of any help to you?

Mr Ward: I am calling to confirm our visit to the Moscow Cardiological Centre. Any changes in the schedule of the visit, Mr Orlov?

Mr Orlov: No changes so far. The visit is arranged for the heads of staff and other members of foreign missions and embassies in Moscow.

Mr Ward: The date and time remain as mentioned in the memo?

Mr Orlov: Yes, next Tuesday, 11 a.m.

Mr Ward: Thank you. Are we supposed to go to the Cardiological Centre on our own?

Mr Orlov: No, Mr Ward, we invite you to come to the Foreign Ministry first, and then we’ll proceed to the Centre in buses.

Mr Ward: That’s a good idea. Any chance of seeing you, Mr Orlov, at the Ministry?

Mr Orlov: Of course, I’ll be accompanying you to the Cardiological Centre.

Mr Ward: Fine. See you next Tuesday, then. Good-bye.

Mr Orlov: Good-bye, Mr Ward.

WORDS AND EXPRESSIONS YOU MAY NEED

to call to confirm звонить по телефону для того, чтобы подтвердить

to arrange a visit организовать посещение

proceed v зд. продолжить путь

EXERCISES

I. Summarize the dialogue in a talk of 2-minutes duration.

II. Make arrangements through the Protocol department over the phone about a visit of Soviet diplomats to the English parliament or the US Congress.

Dialogue 2

At the Cardiological Centre

The General-Director of the Centre: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. You are welcome to our institution.

A voice: As guests or as patients?

The Director: As guests, of course.

First Secretary of the US Embassy: Will you kindly tell us a few words about your celebrated establishment, sir?

The Director: The Centre was constructed in 1975 with money raised by Soviet people through voluntary work during a Communist Subbotnik.

Second Secretary of the Mexican Embassy: Without any subsidies from the Government?

The Director: No subsidies from the Government. The Centre comprises three institutes of Clinical Cardiology, the Experimental Cardiology and the Institute of Heart Disease Prevention.

The Indian Ambassador: We presume that the medical personnel is staffed with experienced scientists?

The Director: Not only. A quarter of the Centre’s scientific staff of 500 are young researchers.

The First Secretary of the Ecuadorian Embassy: All equipment and medicines you are using here is of Soviet manufacture?

The Director: Not necessarily. We have scientific exchange agreements with a number of foreign countries and they supply us with some of their advanced equipment.

Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy: Cardiovascular diseases are known to affect people of all ages, especially the elderly. Do you work out recommendations for the people of this group?

The Director: Yes, we study the causes and focus the attention on heart disease prevention.

Ambassador of Nigeria: From what we see here it’s obvious that your Government considers people’s health a matter of state importance. Do you share your rich experience in this field with the less developed countries?

The Director: Yes, we do. Apart from the theoretical aspect of research and the results of the experiments which are open to any state, we helped in equipment of hospitals in some countries.

Ambassador of Ecuador: Namely?

The Director: In Ethiopia, Angola, India, to mention only a few.

Ambassador of Madagascar: I think that the Cardiological Centre is a spectacular example of the great attention your Government is paying to public health.

First Secretary of the US Embassy: Somebody asked at the beginning of our visit whether you, sir, welcome us here as your guests or patients. I for one don’t mind if I ever have a heart attack to be admitted to your Centre as a patient.

The Director: I am sure you won’t have it.

The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Bulgaria: Allow me, sir, on behalf of the diplomatic corps and on my own behalf to express genuine satisfaction with the results of our visit to the Centre. We wish the staff of the Centre further success for the benefit of mankind. Thank you.

The Director: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. The pleasure is ours.

Good-bye.

The guests: Good-bye.

WORDS AND EXPRESSIONS YOU MAY NEED:

money is raised деньги собраны

voluntary work добровольный труд

cardiovascular diseases сердечно-сосудистые заболевания

disease prevention предупреждение болезней

to share rich (positive) experience делиться богатым (положительным) опытом

a spectacular example зд. наглядный пример

genuine satisfaction искреннее удовлетворение

Interpretation dialogue. Working in pairs, read the following conversations:

Two young diplomats, Soviet and American, both members of their respective delegations to the General Assembly of the United Nations, meet in the lobby of the U.N. Secretariat in New York. Among other questions, they talk about the foreign services of their countries and prominent Soviet and American diplomats.

Mr Briggs: So you’ve crossed the Atlantic to come to New York again, Mr Artov.

Mr Artov: Yes, I have. Among other things separating us is the Atlantic Ocean. You’re lucky, Briggs. It takes you only two hours to get to New York, whereas I have to fly here for more than fifteen hours.

Mr Briggs: You can afford it once a year. I wish I could travel to Moscow at my government’s expense.

Mr Artov: Who heads the American delegation at this G.A.?

Mr Briggs: This time it is a lady, an old friend of the President.

Mr Artov: Democrat or Republican?

Mr Briggs: Republican, of course. She is a professional diplomat. Do you have women-diplomat in your foreign service?

Mr Artov: Yes, we have. A woman-diplomat once headed our UN mission to the Geneva headquarters.

Mr Briggs: Are there any women-ambassadors?

Mr Artov: Not now. Prior and during the war Mrs Alexandra Kollontay was our ambassador in Sweden.

Mr Briggs: This is very interesting. Tell me about her.

Mr Artov: Mrs Kollontay was the first woman to become an accredited diplomat to a foreign country.

Mr Briggs: I guess she was a contemporary of Lenin?

Mr Artov: Yes, she was. Kollontay was an active revolutionary in tzarist Russia.

Mr Briggs: Did she take part in any international conferences?

Mr Artov: She conducted the Soviet-Finnish armistice in 1944.

Mr Briggs: We, in the States, too, have a couple of ladies occupying high posts in the State Department. I’m afraid they are not so prominent as Mrs Kollontay.

Mr Artov: If I am not mistaken, Mrs Lewis was US ambassador in Italy. Where is she now?

Mr Briggs: She has retired already.

Mr Artov: Since when?

Mr Briggs: Oh, years ago. The American permanent delegation to the UN is headed by a lady now.

Mr Artov: Mrs K.?

Mr Briggs: Yes, do you know her?

Mr Artov: Not personally. She seems to be very active, doesn’t she?

Mr Briggs: I think the State Department makes her that active. She is a well-educated person, though. She is an official who tries to do her best to carry out orders she gets from above.

Mr Artov: I should think so. One of the American newspapers called her “a militant lady”.

Mr Briggs: Our press writes a lot about her. The other day I read an article in the “Readers’ Digest” where she is considered to be “undiplomatic ambassador of the USA”.

Mr Artov: Not very complimentary. A diplomat should be diplomatic, at least to justify the name.

Mr Briggs: The break is over, let’s go to the Assembly Hall.

Mr Artov: Off we go, Briggs.

EXERCISES

I. Hold a class discussion on the diplomatic aspect of the activity of the United Nations.

II. State the arguments (if any) for and against the employment of women as professional diplomats.

III. Summarize the conversation of the two diplomats in a talks of 5-minutes duration.

 

B. INVITATIONS

1. Invitation to a Reception

Operator: Foreign Office. Good morning. Can I help you?

Mr Orlov: I’d like to speak to Mr James Marsh, please. I think it’s extension forty-seven.

Operator: Who’s calling, please?

Mr Orlov: Mr Orlov.

Operator: Will you hold the line, please?

Mr Orlov: Yes, thank you.

Operator: You are through now, Mr Orlov.

Mr Marsh: Marsh speaking.

Mr Orlov: Good morning, Mr Marsh. Orlov calling.

Mr Marsh: Good morning. How have you been?

Mr Orlov: Very well, thank you. And I hope you are well too.

Mr Marsh: Yes, I’m fine, thank you.

Mr Orlov: I’m calling to invite you and your wife to the reception to be held on the occasion of our great national holiday, the 62nd Anniversary of the Great October Revolution. It will take place on November 7, at 6 p.m.

Mr Marsh: Thank you very much. I’m delighted to accept your invitation.

Mr Orlov: Good. I’ll get the invitation card in the mail late this afternoon then. I’m looking forward to seeing you. Good-bye.

Mr Marsh: Bye-bye, Mr Orlov.

2. Extending an Invitation to Lunch

Mr Serov: This is Mr Serov speaking.

Mr Weston: Good afternoon, Mr Serov. This is Weston.

Mr Serov: Hello, Mr Weston. What a surprise! I didn’t expect you to be back in London so soon.

Mr Weston: This time I’m here only on a short visit and I’d like very much to meet you. Could you join me for lunch, say, tomorrow?

Mr Serov: Thanks for your kind invitation but I’m afraid I’m booked up for tomorrow. Could you suggest an alternative date?

Mr Weston: Just a second. I’ll look at my schedule. Can we make it Friday, then?

Mr Serov: Yes, that’d be splendid.

Mr Weston: I’ll be in touch with you and let you know the place and time.

Mr Serov: Thank you for the invitation. Good-bye.

Mr Weston: See you on Friday.

3. Invitation to a Motor Show

Secretary: Hello.

Mr Stock: Good morning. I’d like to speak to Mr Baturin.

Secretary: Who’s calling, please?

Mr Stock: This is Mr Stock from Satre Ltd.

Secretary: Will you hold the line, please? I’ll see if Mr Baturin’s available. Mr Stock, Mr Baturin is on the other phone. Will you wait or call back?

Mr Stock: I’ll wait, thank you.

Secretary: Hello, Mr Stock. I’m sorry to have kept you waiting. I’m putting Mr Baturin on the line now.

Mr Baturin: Good morning, Mr Stock.

Mr Stock: Good morning, Mr Baturin. I believe you know that the International Motor Show at Earls Court is due to open on Wednesday, October 18. We would greatly appreciate it if you could come to Earls Court to attend the official opening. The Lada 1200 Saloon from Satre Motors will make its debut at this show.

Mr Baturin: Thank you very much for your kind invitation. But unfortunately I can’t accept it. I have an appointment. I think Mr Ozerov will be able to attend this function if you don’t mind.

Mr Stock: Oh, we will be happy to see Mr Ozerov. We are sending a Complimentary Ticket for him by hand.

Mr Baturin: I wish you every success in your business. The Lada is really creating a great deal of interest wherever it is shown. I sincerely hope that selling Soviet cars in this country will be very profitable for you.

Mr Stock: Thank you for your kind wishes. Good-bye.

Mr Baturin: Bye-bye, Mr Stock.

4. Invitation to the Ballet

Mr Hopkins: Hopkins speaking. Good afternoon.

Mr Zotov: Good afternoon. Zotov here. I’m so glad I got through at last. I tried to get you on the phone yesterday but you were out.

Mr Hopkins: Yes, I was away from London and returned this morning.

Mr Zotov: I know you are a ballet admirer. I’d like to invite you to Covent Garden. I guess you know the Bolshoi ballet is now in London and tomorrow they are performing “Spartacus”.

Mr Hopkins: Thank you very much. It’s very kind of you. I’ll gladly accept your invitation to see the fabulous Bolshoi ballet which commands the love and admiration of audiences all over the world.

Mr Zotov: Good. Incidentally the performance starts at 7.30 and runs three hours. Would you like me to call for you?

Mr Hopkins: No, thank you. Don’t bother. I’ll get there on my own.

Mr Zotov: Then I’ll be waiting for you at 7.15 outside the theatre. Goodbye.

Mr Hopkins: Thanks a lot. Good-bye.

5. Declining an Invitation

Mr Smirnov: Hello.

Mr Barlow: Hello. I’d like to speak to Mr Smirnov.

Mr Smirnov: Speaking.

Mr Barlow: Barlow here. Good morning, Mr Smirnov.

Mr Smirnov: Could you speak up, please. Your voice is ever so faint.

Mr Barlow: Hold on a minute, please. I’ll try to fix the microphone. Are you there, Mr Smirnov?

Mr Smirnov: Oh, yes. I think that’s better now.

Mr Barlow: Mr Smirnov, I’m calling to invite you to dinner tomorrow.

Mr Smirnov: Thanks a lot. It’s very kind of you and I’d be happy to join you but I’m afraid I’ve got another engagement for tomorrow. I’m very sorry.

Mr Barlow: I’m sorry too, but I do understand I should have invited you a few days ago. One can’t really expect people to accept invitations at such short notice, of course. We’ll have to make it some other time then. Good-bye.

Mr Smirnov: Good-bye, Mr Barlow.

EXERCISES

I. Read these dialogues and pay attention to telephone phrases.

II. Reproduce these dialogues as close to the text as possible.

III. Practise spelling different names over the phone.

IV. What would you say on the phone in reply to these remarks?

1. Hold on, please. I’ll see if Mr Morris is available. 2. How have you been? 3. I wonder if you and your colleagues will join us for lunch on Friday. 4. I’m calling to invite you to Covent Garden. They are performing “Othello” tomorrow. 5. Would you like me to call for you? 6. I’m afraid I will not be able to attend the Annual Meeting which you will hold on Monday. I’m so sorry, really. 7. If you’re ever in London we’d love to see you. 8. Why don’t you come round and have dinner with us next Thursday? 9. Do let’s meet sometime. 10. I wish I could, but I’ve promised to go with my children to the cinema. 11. Would you care for a game of tennis on Saturday morning? 12. Thanks awfully, but I’m afraid I’m booked up for tomorrow.

V. In what situations would you say the following?

1. Yes, I’d be delighted to accept your invitation. 2. You’ll have a chance to meet the rest of my colleagues. 3. Thanks awfully, but I’m afraid I’ve got a lunch appointment for this time. 4. Yes, that’d be splendid. I’d love to. 5. I’m terribly sorry. I’m booked up for Friday. 6. Good, see you on Sunday, then. 7. I’ve been wanting to meet you for a long time. 8. When exactly do you suggest I come? 9. It’s nice meeting you. 10. I’m so pleased to have met you. 11. I’ll get there on my own. 12. I’ll call back later. 13. Could I leave a message? 14. I understand we should have invited you a few days ago. 15. Will you speak up, please. 16. Your invitation came at very short notice. 17. Sorry. I’m engaged. 18. That suits me perfectly. 19. It is a credit card call.

VI. a) Extend an invitation by phone:

1. to a reception; 2. to the Bolshoi Theatre; 3. to an International Book Exhibition; 4. to a luncheon; 5. to your place; 6. to a cocktail party

b) Accept or decline the invitation by phone.

Read the dialogues aloud working in groups of two.

Dialogue 1

6. Entertaining Guests

Mr Block: They say that entertaining guests is an essential part of diplomatic activity. Do you share this opinion?

Mr Bulatov: I would rather consider entertaining not an essential but a most important part of diplomatic work. Apart from improving the public image of the country you represent it helps to establish contacts and make friends.

Mr Block: It takes a lot of time and efforts to say nothing of money to arrange a diplomatic reception such as an official dinner, for instance.

Mr Bulatov: Yes, it does. But the most difficult job is to make the people you have invited feel comfortable and at ease.

Mr Block: I suppose it depends on the host.

Mr Bulatov: And the hostess, the way she works out the seating plan and observes the order of precedence. Ministry officials and foreign diplomats are touchy people, you know.

Mr Block: Should the common interests and the profession of the invited guests be taken into consideration while arranging the seating plan?

Mr Bulatov: If you want your dinner to proceed smoothly you ensure it as tar as possible. The conversation among the guests will be more lively, and most probably there will be no conflicting situations.

Mr Block: Conversation is an art.

Mr Bulatov: You are right. A conversation is not an interchange of words, but ideas. Even a dinner conversation should be thoughtful, natural and still light. It is an art which is acquired by experience.

Mr Block: Some topics are in themselves unpleasant or are sure to bring out from some guests dissatisfaction or even anger.

Mr Bulatov: I don’t think that there are taboo subjects the discussion of which should be avoided.

Mr Block: Are there any topics which you wouldn’t recommend to touch upon during an official dinner?

Mr Bulatov: If there are guests whom you don’t know well enough, avoid to talk on local or national politics, religion, death and other tragedies.

Mr Block: Some people are interested in local scandals, gossip and divorces.

Mr Bulatov: Exclude them. There are some topics which interest almost everyone and are fairly sure to go well in any company. These are books, the theatre and motion pictures, radio and TV programmes, travel-places visited, scientific achievements and so on.

Mr Block: In other words the worth of the topic depends on the time, the place, and the people you are talking to.

Mr Bulatov: You are right, Mr Block.

Dialogue 2 (Telephone Conversation)

Invitation to a Reception

Operator: Foreign Office. Good afternoon. Can I help you?

Mr Klochek: I’d like to speak to Mr Drake, please.

Operator: Who’s calling, please?

Mr Klochek: Mr Klochek of the Polish Embassy.

Operator: Wait a minute, please. (Pause.) You are through now, Mr Klochek.

Mr Drake: This is Drake speaking.

Mr Klochek: Good afternoon, Mr Drake. Klochek calling.

Mr Drake: Good afternoon, Mr Klochek. How have you been all this time?

Mr Klochek: Very well, thank you. And you?

Mr Drake: Fine, thank you. Since my return from Egypt I have been eager to see you.

Mr Klochek: You will have a chance. I’m calling to invite you and your wife to the reception to be held in our Embassy on Friday, March 27, at 6 p.m.

Mr Drake: What is the occasion?

Mr Klochek: A group of actors from the National Theatre arriving for the performance in this country.

Mr Drake: You mean from the Warsaw Theatre of opera and ballet?

Mr Klochek: Exactly.

Mr Drake: Wonderful. My wife will be delighted.

Mr Klochek: I’ll get the invitation card in the mail early morning tomorrow. We are looking forward to seeing you and your wife. Good-bye.

Mr Drake: Thank you very much, Mr Klochek. Good-bye.

Dialogue 3 (Telephone Conversation)

Invitation to a Dinner

Mr Hunter: Good evening, Mr Won Diem.

Mr Won Diem: Good evening, Mr Hunter. It’s ages I heard from you.

Mr Hunter: I’ve been away for a while. It was a business trip to Thailand.

Mr Won Diem: I’m glad you phoned me.

Mr Hunter: The days have been so crowded since my return that there have been few occasions to visit any of my friends.

Mr Won Diem: I hope to see you some day.

Mr Hunter: That is what I mean. Will it be possible for you and Mrs Won Diem to have dinner with us at seven o’clock on Friday, the tenth?

Mr Won Diem: Even if we had other plans for Friday, we should try to cancel them to have the pleasure to see both of you.

Mr Hunter: So this coming Friday, at seven. We are expecting some other interesting people to come.

Mr Won Diem: Thank you, Mr Hunter.

Mr Hunter: Good-bye, Mr Won Diem.

Mr Won Diem: Good-bye, Mr Hunter. See you on Friday.

WORDS AND WORD COMBINATIONS YOU MAY NEED

1. an essential part существенная связь

to share opinions делиться мнениями

to make friends заводить друзей

to say nothing (of) не говоря уже

touchy people обидчивые люди

lively conversation оживленный разговор

an interchange of words обмен словами

gossip n сплетня

to touch upon a subject касаться предмета

divorce развод

2. to be eager сильно желать чего-л.

to hold a reception устраивать прием

to be delighted быть очень довольным

to look forward (to) ожидать с нетерпением

3. to be crowded зд. быть наполненным

few occasions редкие случаи

cancel v отменять, аннулировать

cancellation п отмена, аннулирование

EXERCISES

I. Dramatize the dialogues.

II. Make up small dialogues of your own using the active vocabulary.

III. Have a diplomatic talk with your class-mate about the ways of entertaining guests.

IV. Invite your friends over the phone to a dinner (lunch, tea party, concert, the theatre).

 

C. RESERVATIONS

1. Booking a Long-Distance Call

Operator: Hello.

Mr Kozlov: Good afternoon. This is Kozlov, my room number is 523. I want to make a long-distance call, please.

Operator: Where to, sir?

Mr Kozlov: To Washington, to Sovexportfilm. I wish to speak to Mr Karelin.

Operator: Do you know the number, please?

Mr Kozlov: No, I’m afraid I don’t. Can you find it out for me?

Operator: Yes, sir. I’ll get it from the directory and call you back.

Mr Kozlov: Thank you.

Operator: Mr Kozlov, your Washington number is 357-3452. Would you like me to get it for you?

Mr Kozlov: That would be most kind of you.

Operator: Do you want to make it person-to-person?

Mr Kozlov: Yes, I’d like to.

Operator: I’m sorry, the number is busy. Would you like me to keep trying?

Mr Kozlov: Yes, please. Try it again as soon as possible.

Operator: Yes, sir. I’m afraid there’s a half-hour delay on Washington.

Mr Kozlov: O.K. I’ll be in my room for a short while, but from two o’clock on I’ll be in the restaurant.

Operator: Yes, see. I’ll see that you are paged in the restaurant if the call has not come through by two.

Mr Kozlov: Thank you.

2. A Hotel Reservation

Receptionist: Reception desk. Tavistock Hotel. Good morning.

Mr Serov: Good morning. This is Intourist. We’d like to make a reservation for Mr Kozlov.

Receptionist: Could you spell the name, please?

Mr Serov: Yes, certainly. K-o-z-l-o-v.

Receptionist: Thank you. What accommodation do you require?

Mr Serov: A single room, with private bathroom, for three nights from the 7th of October.

Receptionist: Would you hold on a moment, please, I’ll see whether we have the accommodation available.

Mr Serov: Thank you.

Receptionist: Yes, I can reserve a single room with bath, from the 7th of October, for three nights. It’s an inside room on the fifth floor.

Mr Serov: Would you please see that it’s a quiet room?

Receptionist: We will try.

Mr Serov: Thank you. What will the charge be?

Receptionist: 10.50 daily, plus 12% service charge, inclusive of breakfast. Would you please confirm this reservation in writing?

Mr Serov: Yes, I’ll write you today.

Receptionist: Thank you. Good-bye.

Mr Serov: Good-bye.

3. A Restaurant Reservation

Manager: Hello. Savoy Restaurant.

Mr Dedov: Good afternoon. This is Dedov from Techmachimport here. We would like to make arrangements with you for a small dinner party for tomorrow night.

Manager: Very good, sir. How many people do you expect?

Mr Dedov: We’ll have 20 persons.

Manager: Then I think the Rose Room would be the most appropriate. I suggest one long table, nine on each side, with one at each end. That would leave plenty of space for a little bar to be set up for your drinks.

Mr Dedov: That sounds fine. I like the idea of the little bar.

Manager: What would you like to order for dinner?

Mr Dedov: Well, I was thinking of, say, a four-course affair with wines and champagne.

Manager: Then I’d suggest hors-d’oeuvre or turtle soup, sole or omelette, beef fillet or roast duckling. And for dessert ice pudding.

Mr Dedov: Good. It suits my taste admirably.

Manager: And what about the wines?

Mr Dedov: If we are having soup, I think we’ll take a dry sherry. For the main course a red wine definitely and then finish up with champagne. That’s all. Anyway I think that would be roughly what I have in mind.

Manager: Good. What time do you wish to begin?

Mr Dedov: 7 for 7.30.

Manager: Thank you very much, Mr Dedov. Good-bye.

Mr Dedov: Good-bye.

4. Booking a Plane Reservation

Clerk: BEA. Good morning.

Mr Bardin: Good morning. My name is Bardin. I’d like to book a seat on the plane to Rome for Monday, the tenth.

Clerk: Yes, sir. Do you want to travel economy class or first class?

Mr Bardin: I’d like first class.

Clerk: I’ll check the time-table for you. Will you hold on, please? There is a flight leaving Heathrow at 11.55 on Monday and arriving in Rome at 13.30. It flies non-stop.

Mr Bardin: That suits me. What time do I have to get to the airport?

Clerk: You’ll have to be at West London Air Terminal by 10.20 at the latest. The coach leaves for the airport at 10.30. But if you are going to the airport on your own you must be there before 11.30 and you can pick up your ticket at the airport booking-office.

Mr Bardin: Thank you. Good-bye.

Clerk: Good-bye.

5. Booking Theatre Seats

Clerk: Hello. National Theatre.

Mr Lazarev: Hello. I’d like to know what’s playing tonight?

Clerk: “Long Day’s Journey into Night” by O’Neill starring Laurence Olivier.

Mr Lazarev: I want to reserve two stalls, please.

Clerk: Sorry, sir. All stalls are sold out. Would the dress-circle do?

Mr Lazarev: Are the seats good?

Clerk: First row (Row A), seats 16 and 17, that’ll be right in the middle to the left of the central aisle.

Mr Lazarev: How far to the left?

Clerk: The second and third seats, sir.

Mr Lazarev: All right. I guess that will do. My name is Lazarev. I’ll call for them some time around seven.

Clerk: Very good, sir. We’ll keep your booking till seven then. Good-bye.

Mr Lazarev: Thank you. Bye.

EXERCISES

I. Read the dialogues and reproduce them paying attention to telephone phrases.

II. Say something in reply to the following remarks and questions.

1. Would you like to make a long-distance call, please? 2. Can you find his phone number for me? 3. Do you want to make a person-to-person call? 4. I’m afraid there will be some delay. 5. Could you spell the name, please? 6. Do I have to confirm my reservation in writing? 7. I would like to make arrangements with you for a birthday party (with the manager of a restaurant). 8. We would like to invite you for our Christmas dinner. 9. Why doesn’t this flight suit you? 10. Sorry, I can’t give you a definite answer.

III. In what situations would you say the following?

1. cannot get in touch with him. 2. The use of a large telephone directory is somewhat difficult. 3. I’m sorry you don’t have single rooms with private bathroom available. 4. I would ask you to see that the apartment is a quiet one. 5. Do you have accommodation with a less service charge? 6. We would like to make arrangements with the restaurant manager for a small dinner party. 7. A flight leaving Heathrow at 11.55 on Monday does not suit me. 8. We would prefer to have our seats in the middle of the fifth row. 9. They’ve changed the cast and we are returning the tickets to the booking office. 10. At last we have come to the airport. Thank you for the lift.

IV. Reserve by phone:

1. two rooms at the hotel for your colleagues who are coming to New York on Friday; 2. a passage on board the ship bound for Leningrad; 3. two seats on the train to Paris; you want to travel first class; 4. a table at the restaurant; arrange with the manager what you will have for dinner; you will be entertaining your friends; 5. a long-distance call to Madrid; you want to make it personal; ask the operator about the charge rates; 6. a seat on the plane to Moscow after you inquire about flights and make sure that the take-off time is convenient to you; 7. two seats at Covent Garden for a Sunday matinee.

 

D. INQUIRIES

1. Flight Information

Operator: Good morning. British European Airways.

Mr Sokolov: Good morning. Could you please connect me with someone who can tell me what time the afternoon plane from Moscow will be arriving?

Operator: You want Flight Information. I’ll try and put you through. I’m sorry. Flight Information is engaged at the moment. Will you hold on or call back?

Mr Sokolov: I’ll hold on, thanks.

Operator: I’m putting you through to Flight Information now.

Clerk: Flight Information. Can I help you?

Mr Sokolov: Could you please tell me if there is any delay on the flight from Moscow this afternoon?

Clerk: Yes, it’s due in at 16.35, that’s an approximate delay of twenty minutes.

Mr Sokolov: Thank you. Good morning.

2. Calling Train Inquiries

Telephone Operator: British Railways, King’s Cross.

Passenger: Train Inquiries, please.

T.I.: Inquiries.

Passenger: Can you give me the times of fast trains to Edinburgh, please, and arrival time? I’d like to get there about 6.00 p.m.

T.I.: Just a minute. Let’s see. Week days 8.48 arrive 5.10, 9.30 arrive 5.30, 10.20 arrive 6.30. Do you want any more?

Passenger: No. That’s fine, thank you very much. These are week day trains, aren’t they?

T.I.: Yes, Monday and Saturday inclusive.

3. Inquiring about Books

Secretary: Consular Department.

Mr Com: This is Corn speaking. I’m calling you to inquire about some books, please.

Secretary: Yes, what kind of books are you interested in, Mr Corn?

Mr Com: You see, I’m working on the problem of American-Soviet relations prior to World War II.

Secretary: Mr Corn, this is the Consular Department and we, as a rule, do not deal with such questions. Here, in the city we have a branch office of our book company “Mezhdunarodnaya Kniga”. You may approach them if you wish.

Mr Com: What is their phone number, please?

Secretary: It is seven-seven-four; two-five-nine-three.

Mr Com: Thank you. Good-bye.

Secretary: Good-bye.

4. Renting a House

Mr Frolov: Good morning. Is this Mr Applebee?

Mr Applebee: Yes, I’m Applebee.

Mr Frolov: I’m Frolov and I’m calling about the house you advertised to rent for the summer months.

Mr Applebee: How many are you in your family, Mr Frolov?

Mr Frolov: Four: my wife, two children and myself. Your house sounds like the sort of place we need for three months — June, July and August.

Mr Applebee: Yes, of course, we have all the conveniences and plenty of rooms to accommodate all of you.

Mr Frolov: How many closets and dressers do you have?

Mr Applebee: A lot.

Mr Frolov: My wife and I would like to see your house, Mr Applebee, but I don’t have a car right now. Can we get to you easily some other way? We are on West 86th Street.

Mr Applebee: Yes, of course. Take the 86th Street subway station, and in fifteen minutes you will be here. You have our address, don’t you?

Mr Frolov: Yes, I do.

Mr Applebee: How soon would you like to come?

Mr Frolov: Is this Saturday at three o’clock all right?

Mr Applebee: Fine. I’ll expect you.

Mr Frolov: Thank you, Mr Applebee. Good-bye.

Mr Applebee: Good-bye.

EXERCISES

I. Read the dialogues and reproduce them paying attention to telephone phrases.

II. Practise the spelling of the following names by phone:

Mr Smith, Miss McKennan, Mrs Sonnenfeld, Mr Kutuzov, Mr Surikov, Mr Schipatchev, Mrs Raskolnikov

III. What would you say in reply to these remarks and questions?

1. There will be a delay on your long-distance call to Paris. Will you wait? 2. Where can we get in touch with you, sir? 3. I’ve heard you are looking for a nice summer cottage. What sort of place do you need? 4. We have an apartment with all the conveniences. 5. Flight Information. Can I help you? 6. What kind of books are you interested in? 7. There is some delay on the flight from Moscow today. 8. Sorry, Train Inquiries is engaged now. 9. What information would you like to obtain? 10. Whom could we approach to make inquiries about your export of furs to this country?

IV. In what situations would you say the following?

1. Could you put me through to somebody who can tell me the take-off time of the plane to Milan? 2. What time does the coach leave for the airport? 3. I’ll go to the airport on my own. 4. Where can I pick up the ticket? 5. “Mezhdunarodnaya Kniga” is concerned with a wide range of records, books, stamps and other goods. 6. I would like to rent an apartment for a year. 7. Will you check my telephone line, operator? It doesn’t operate properly. 8. When is Flight 903 due to get to Washington? 9. What is the arrival time of the train from Liverpool? 10. I’m afraid your charge for the summer cottage is too high.

V. Make inquiries by phone:

1. about the take-off time of the plane to Moscow; 2. about the arrival time of the train from Paris; 3. about the goods the company is importing; 4. about the accommodation at the hotel; 5. about books dealing with modern British and American fiction, available at the shop; 6. about the trunk-call which is delayed

5. Visas

Working in groups of two, read aloud the following Telephone Dialogues.

Dialogue 1

Business Visa

Secretary: Consular Department.

Mr Ноrn: Good morning. This is Horn speaking.

Secretary: Good morning, Mr Horn. Could I help you?

Mr Horn: Five days ago I sent you my passport to obtain a visa for a business trip to the Soviet Union.

Secretary: Wait a minute, Mr Horn. I’ll make some inquiries. (After two minutes’ interval.) Yes, Mr Horn, we have your completed application form and your passport. But you did not send us three passport-size photographs.

Mr Horn: I’m afraid I didn’t. The thing is, I don’t have them.

Secretary: Then go to the local photographer and have the pictures taken.

Mr Horn: Thank you. If I send the photographs tomorrow, when can I have my passport back?

Secretary: We need at least seven clear days to issue a visa. In your case we’ll do it in three days.

Mr Horn: You are very kind, thank you. Good-bye.

Secretary: Good-bye, Mr Horn.

Dialogue 2

Tourist Visa

Miss Dodge: Good afternoon. Could I speak to somebody from the Soviet Consular Department, please?

Secretary: Good afternoon. Secretary’s speaking.

Miss Dodge: My name is Dodge. I am going to visit the Soviet Union as a tourist.

Secretary: You are welcome, Miss Dodge.

Miss Dodge: Should I apply for a visa personally or by post?

Secretary: Any way you wish.

Miss Dodge: What documents should I submit to the Consular Department, pдease?

Secretary: A completed application form, your passport, three recent passport-size photographs, and a letter from your travel agent.

Miss Dodge: Do I have to get in touch with a travel agency?

Secretary: Yes, Miss Dodge. All individual tourist trips to the Soviet Union are arranged through the “Intourist” Travel agency.

Miss Dodge: Can’t I arrange it through the Consular Department?

Secretary: I’m afraid, Miss Dodge, you cannot. It is done for your convenience. The “Intourist” will take care of the tickets and your hotel accommodation in the USSR.

Miss Dodge: Thank you very much. When you are open?

Secretary: Monday through Friday. Our Consular office is closed on Saturdays and Sundays and on all legal holidays.

Miss Dodge: Thank you again, Miss Secretary.

Secretary: You are welcome. Good-bye.

Miss Dodge: Good-bye.

Dialogue 3

An Applicant’s Passport is not Available

Mr Stock: Hello, is this the Soviet Consular Department, please?

Secretary: Yes, it is.

Mr Stock: This is Stock speaking. I would like to make some inquiries about the Soviet visa.

Secretary: Have you sent the documents to the Consular Department, Mr Stock?

Mr Stock: Not yet. The matter is, I don’t have the passport at present. It is with the Foreign Office.

Secretary: Then I connect you with our Vice-Consul, Mr Stock.

Vice-Consul (after a minute): Speaking.

Mr Stock explains his situation.

Vice-Consul: As a rule, Mr Stock, the Consulate does not issue visas without the applicant’s passport.

Mr Stock: This is an urgent business trip to Leningrad, Mr Vice-Consul, and the passport will be available from the Foreign Office within three days, I am sure.

Vice-Consul: In exceptional cases like yours we can issue a visa providing you send us all the necessary documents now, and the passport will be presented later.

Mr Stock: Thank you very much, sir. What documents do I have to supply now, except the passport?

Vice-Consul: A completed application form, three recent passport-size photographs, and a letter from your firm confirming your business trip to the USSR.

Mr Stock: I’ll deliver the documents to your Office tomorrow afternoon.

Vice-Consul: And the passport, of course, as soon as you get it from the Foreign Office.

Mr Stock: Sure thing, Mr Vice-Consul. Thank you very much.

Vice-Consul: Good-bye.

Mr Stock: Good-bye.

WORDS AND EXPRESSIONS YOU MAY NEED

1. to obtain visa получать визу

a completed application form анкета, заполненная подателем

clear days рабочие дни; непраздничные дни

2. to apply for a visa personally лично обращаться за визой

to submit a document предъявлять документ

a recent passport-size photograph последняя фотография паспортного размера

for somebody’s convenience для чьего-либо удобства

legal holidays официальные праздники

3. to explain a situation объяснять ситуацию

an urgent trip безотлагательная поездка

in exceptional cases в исключительных случаях

providing adv при условии, если

to supply documents представлять документы

confirm v подтверждать

to deliver documents доставлять документы; официально вручать документы

personify v воплощать(ся), имитировать

EXERCISES

I. Learn the dialogues.

II. Say what documents you have to submit to the Consular Department to obtain:

— a business visa;

— a tourist visa;

— a visa when your passport is not available.

III. Make up small dialogues of your own personifying an applicant for visa and Vice-Consul.

IV. Phone the Consular Department inquiring about the delay in issuing visas for a group of Polish students.

 

E. CONGRATULATIONS

1. Congratulations on a Promotion

Mr James: Two-four-five; seven-double three-six.

Mr Serov: Good morning. Could I have a word with Mr James, please?

Mr James: Speaking.

Mr Serov: Boris Serov here, Arthur.

Mr James: Oh, hello, Boris.

Mr Serov: I’m calling to offer you my heartiest congratulations on your promotion.

Mr James: Thank you ever so much.

Mr Serov: I guess you have other fish to fry and we won’t be having as many official contacts now, but I do hope that our productive cooperation will continue.

Mr James: I hope so, too. It has always been a great pleasure for me to have worked with the people from your country.

Mr Serov: Thank you. That’s splendid then. Please accept my best wishes for your future career. Good-bye, Arthur.

Mr James: Good-bye, Boris.

2. Happy Birthday

Mr Clay: Hello. Could I speak to Mr Orlov?

Mr Orlov: Speaking. Good afternoon.

Mr Clay: Good afternoon, Mike. This is John Clay speaking.

Mr Orlov: How are you, John?

Mr Clay: Fine, thanks. I called to wish you a happy birthday.

Mr Orlov: Thank you very much, John. It’s so kind of you to remember my birthday. Incidentally could you come over to my place tonight? I’m having a few people over.

Mr Clay: Thanks, Mike, but I’m afraid I must be leaving for Glasgow today. I’ll give you a ring when I come back.

Mr Orlov: Good. So I hope to see you before long. Good-bye.

Mr Clay: Good-bye.

3. Congratulations on a Marriage

Mr Candlin: Three-four-one; seven-one-double eight.

Mr Azarov: Hello, Philip, Azarov here.

Mr Candlin: Oh, Victor, good morning.

Mr Azarov: I was delighted to hear of your marriage, Philip. Please accept my most sincere and hearty congratulations. I wish I could have been at your wedding but I have only just come from Moscow.

Mr Candlin: Thank you very much. I was so sorry you couldn’t come.

Mr Azarov: It’s really good that you decided to get married at last and I do wish you and Mary the very best of luck and many years in which to enjoy it.

Mr Candlin: Thank you for your kind wishes.

Mr Azarov: Good-bye.

Mr Candlin: Bye.

4. Congratulations on Birth of Son

Mr Petrov: Good afternoon, Jack.

Mr Hailey: Good afternoon, Nick.

Mr Petrov: Congratulations on the arrival of your son. My wife and I were delighted to hear the good news and especially to know that Jenny and your son are both well.

Mr Hailey: Thank you very much, Nick. You can’t imagine how happy I am.

Mr Petrov: You are sure to make a wonderful father, but don’t get too excited about it.

Mr Hailey: I can’t help it. I’m brimming over with joy and happiness. You know how it feels to become a father.

Mr Petrov: Congratulations again, and please give them to Jenny when you see her, from both of us. Good-bye.

Mr Hailey: Thanks, Nick. Bye.

EXERCISES

I. Read the dialogues and reproduce them paying attention to telephone phrases.

II. What would you say on the phone in reply to these remarks and questions?

1. I’m happy to offer you my hearty congratulations on your promotion. 2. You can’t imagine how happy I am. My wife has borne me a son. 3. I’m so sorry you couldn’t come to our wedding. 4. Many happy returns of the day, Nick. 5. My wife has been seriously ill. But now she is out of danger. She managed to pull through her illness. 6. I’m calling to convey our congratulations on your successful completion of the project. 7. Accept my best wishes for your future career.

III. In what situations would you say the following?

1. You have other fish to fry. 2. I hope that our productive cooperation will continue. 3. Please accept my best wishes. 4. It’s so considerate of you to send me your congratulations. 5. I am sure you’ll make a wonderful father. 6. He’s brimming over with joy and happiness. 7. Convey my hearty congratulations to your wife. 8. I’m delighted to hear that your wife and new-born baby are well.

IV. Convey congratulations by phone:

1. to your colleague who has been promoted; 2. to your counterpart who has got married; 3. to the director of the company on the successful completion of the project; the equipment for the project has been delivered by this company; 4. to your American friend who has become a father; 5. to your African colleagues on their National Holiday.

 

F. EXCHANGE OF OPINIONS

1. Discussing Business

Mr Ross: Could I speak to Mr Frolov, please?

Mr Frolov: Speaking.

Mr Ross: Good morning, Mr Frolov. This is Ross. I work with the U.N. in the Development Programme.

Mr Frolov: That is my field, too.

Mr Ross: That’s why I am calling you, Mr Frolov.

Mr Frolov: Is there anything I can do for you?

Mr Ross: I read your articles on technical assistance and find them excellent.

Mr Frolov: They may seem a little obsolete, I am afraid. I wrote them some years ago.

Mr Ross: Well, the figures may be obsolete, but the general approach and the method of research are up-to-date. What is most interesting is the analysis of the economy you gave in your last article.

Mr Frolov: That is the article on the economic development of some East African countries, isn’t it? Are you an economist, Mr Ross?

Mr Ross: Yes, I am. My field is the influence of the U.N. technical assistance upon the economic development of East African countries.

Mr Frolov: That is a very interesting but little known field. In what way, Mr Ross, do you think, I can help you?

Mr Ross: Mr Frolov, you are a specialist on the economic situation in Eastern Africa. Could you recommend me any literature on the subject?

Mr Frolov: Certainly, I can send you the bibliography on the problem.

Mr Ross: Will you send it to my U.N. address, please?

Mr Frolov: I will. Good-bye, Mr Ross.

Mr Ross: Thank you very much. Good-bye.

2. Discussing Arrangements

Mr Brenn: Could I speak to Mr Shilov, please?

Secretary: Who’s calling, please?

Mr Brenn: This is Tom Brenn of the Conference Department, United Nations.

Secretary: Wait a second, Mr Brenn. Here is Mr Shilov.

Mr Shilov: Hello, Mr Brenn. Has the Conference finished its work? I’m sorry I had to leave due to an urgent matter here in the Mission.

Mr Brenn: That’s all right, Mr Shilov. The Conference has adjourned till next Tuesday. The Chairman has asked you and me to prepare a draft resolution.

Mr Shilov: Has anyone else been included in the draft resolution group?

Mr Brenn: Only two of us, and a secretary.

Mr Shilov: I must say Mr Ovenov is an excellent chairman. I like the way he conducted the proceedings. He gave everyone a chance to speak and kept the discussion to the point.

Mr Brenn: It’s a pity you left. At the end he gave a very good summary of the first day’s work of the Conference.

Mr Shilov: I hope that all the participants of the Conference will make an effective contribution to the subject under consideration. See you tomorrow then.

Mr Brenn: Yes, 10 o’clock in the morning, at the Conference Hall. Goodbye, Mr Shilov.

Mr Shilov: Good-bye, Mr Brenn.

* * *

Mr Reid: Hello, can I speak to Mr Petrov, please?

Secretary: Who’s calling, please?

Mr Reid: This is Reid of the Foreign Office.

Secretary: Which Petrov would you like to talk to, Mr Reid? We have two Petrovs here — councillor Arcady Petrov and attache Leonid Petrov.

Mr Reid: Councillor Petrov, please.

Secretary: Mr Petrov is on the phone.

Mr Petrov: Hello, Mr Reid. I am glad you called me.

Mr Reid: How are you, Mr Petrov? I hope you are not too busy with the preparations for this forthcoming conference of ours?

Mr Petrov: I am fine, thank you. I have an appointment with you, you remember, to discuss the draft resolution of the conference.

Mr Reid: Of course, I do. It is this Friday, at 3 p.m. Did the Chairman of the Committee send you the draft?

Mr Petrov: Yes, he did, and his personal letter, too. He’s insisting on discussing the draft resolution by a narrow circle of diplomats first. I don’t know what he means mentioning “a narrow circle of diplomats”.

Mr Reid: Our delegation also received his personal letter, and, as a matter of fact, it surprised us a little. I wish he would tell us more explicitly what this “narrow circle of diplomats” will be dealing with.

Mr Petrov: You don’t mind, Mr Reid, if we discuss this problem along with the other questions this Friday, do you?

Mr Reid: No, I don’t. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon. Good-bye.

Mr Petrov: Good-bye, Mr Reid.

3. Going on Business Abroad

Mr Jones: Hello, Mr Sedov. What have you been up to since I saw you last?

Mr Sedov: Not much, I am afraid, Mr Jones. Just the usual routine work here in the Department of Technical Assistance. And how are you?

Mr Jones: I’m fine, thank you. I’ve heard from Sergeev that you are going to leave for Yugoslavia soon. Is that right?

Mr Sedov: Yes, it is. A group of engineers and technical advisers from the Department is supposed to visit that country.

Mr Jones: On any particular mission?

Mr Sedov: Yes, the Yugoslavs invited us to help them with the construction of modern highways.

Mr Jones: Then they may be in need of the great cranes and bulldozers our firm is producing.

Mr Sedov: Most probably. You should get in touch with the Assistant Director of the Department, and ask him for information and advice, Mr Jones.

Mr Jones: What’s his name?

Mr Sedov: Mr Souram of India.

Mr Jones: Do you have his telephone number?

Mr Sedov: Jot it down — 377-01-09.

Mr Jones: Thank you. When are you leaving for Yugoslavia?

Mr Sedov: Next Monday. You’d better get in touch with Mr Souram as soon as possible

4. Talking of Colleagues

Fred: Hello, Yuri. This is Fred.

Yuri: Hello, Fred. How are you?

Fred: Very busy. We’ve got a lot of work here with the documents.

Yuri: I know. It’s the usual thing with the Documents Office before the Assembly.

Fred: Do you know the news?

Yuri: No, what is it?

Fred: Can you imagine — Dorothy and John are engaged.

Yuri: Which John? The one working in the Conference Department?

Fred: That’s right. And Dorothy is with the Technical Assistance Department.

Yuri: When was the engagement announced?

Fred: A week ago.

Yuri: Have they set the day for the wedding?

Fred: No, not yet. But John says they will marry sometime in November or December. He says you’re on the guest list.

Yuri: Am I? Then I’ve got to think about a wedding present.

Fred: It’s too early yet. He will send you an invitation to the wedding party.

Yuri: And who is the best man?

Fred: Their choice fell on me because I’m a bachelor.

Yuri: Congratulations! They could not have chosen a better man. You are witty, bright and will keep them free from the little worries which usually crop up at the ceremony.

Fred: I’ll try to do my best; as the best man should do. See you at the office on Monday. Bye-bye.

Yuri: Bye-bye, Fred.

5. Talking of Studies

Fred: Hello, Yuri. This is Fred.

Yuri: Hello, Freddy, how are you?

Fred: Not very well, I’m afraid.

Yuri: What’s the matter? Somebody’s ill?

Fred: No, everybody’s fine. But I’m giving up. I certainly can’t learn Russian.

Yuri: Why are you upset? I think you’re making wonderful progress.

Fred: No, I’m not. I try and try but still cannot speak it well.

Yuri: Well, learning any language takes a lot of effort and time. But don’t give up. What if I help you? I have a very good textbook only recently brought from Moscow.

Fred: Thank you, Yuri. I’m sure your help will improve things.

Yuri: See you on Monday, Freddy. Good-bye.

Fred: Thanks again, Yuri. Good-bye.

6. Talking of Sports

Mr Serov: Mr Budd? Good afternoon. This is Serov speaking.

Mr Budd: Hello, Mr Serov. Nice to hear you. How’s everything?

Mr Serov: Fine, thank you. You know, this Friday our Dynamo team is playing against your Red Sox.

Mr Budd: Are they really? That’s great! They are my favourite teams and I don’t know who to root for.

Mr Serov: I have two tickets. Would you like to watch the match?

Mr Budd: Sure thing. This is the only chance, and I would not miss it. And what’s your favourite sport?

Mr Serov: It’s hard to say. I like soccer all right, but I think I like tennis better.

Mr Budd: Do you play much tennis?

Mr SeroV: Yes, quite a bit. How about a game sometime?

Mr Budd: No, thanks. I am strictly a spectator.

Mr Serov: So I’m sending you the tickets for the match and hope to see you on Tuesday.

Mr Budd: Thank you, Mr Serov. I’m looking forward to seeing you. Goodbye.

Mr Serov: Good-bye.

EXERCISES

I. Read these dialogues and reproduce them as close to the text as possible.

II. What would you say on the phone in reply to these remarks or questions?

1. I suppose, that if we weigh the “pros” and “cons” we can make a more equitable assessment of the proposal. 2. Mr Orlov, I think, made a pertinent remark during the debate. 3. If you take an overall view of things I’m sure you’ll change your opinion. 4. I like the way Peter conducted the proceedings. He kept all the discussion to the point. 5. I wouldn’t say that the speaker explicitly spelled out what he had in mind. 6. Mr Breddy is away from the office on sick leave. Is there any message? 7. I think he is making wonderful progress in English. 8. Your argument turned the scale in my favour in our dispute. 9. Why do you think, Mr Omar, the staff at your office is in constant state of flux?

III. In what situations would you say the following?

1. I don’t know which team to root for. 2. Their choice fell on me because I’m a bachelor. 3. Could you fix an alternative date for meeting? 4. I’ll leave the invitation as an open one until a little later. 5. We are anxious to make whatever arrangements are convenient to you for spending a day or two in visiting our factory. 6. Then I’ve got to think about a present. 7. This is the only outstanding question. It should be brought up again tomorrow. 8. This is a very persuasive argument. You should have mentioned it. 9. I’m terribly sorry. I can’t disturb him. He is in conference.

IV. Discuss over the phone with a friend of yours:

1. the film you have seen; 2. the book you have read; 3. the performance you have seen; 4. the conference you have attended; 5. the holiday you had in summer; 6. the invitation to a wedding party you have received; 7. your favourite sport; 8. the party you have been to.

Working in groups of two, read the two dialogues aloud.

Dialogue 1

Discussing the Ties Between the Congress and the State Department

After having an interesting tour around the Capitol, this seat of US legislation, a tourist group of foreign students surrounded their American guide, who is a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. They poured a forest of questions upon him.

Tourist A: We are foreigners, Sir, and do not know much either about the Congress or the State Department. Do you mind if we ask you some questions?

Guide: Of course not. Go ahead. What is it that you’d like to know?

Tourist B: Does the Congress take part in US foreign policy formulation?

Guide: Very much so. The US participation in world affairs since World War II has greatly expanded the role of the Congress in foreign policymaking.

Tourist C: We thought that this was the competence of the State Department.

Guide: This is what the foreigners usually think. The President is the central figure of American foreign policy, and the final responsibility is his.

Tourist D: And the State Secretary’s?

Guide: While the President makes the most critical decisions, he cannot possibly attend to all matters affecting international relations. The Secretary of State, the first-ranking member of the Cabinet, is at the same time the President’s principal adviser in formulating foreign policy.

Tourist A: What are the problems requiring the attention of the Secretary?

Guide: They are manifold — from maintaining country’s security to rescuing an individual American who got in serious trouble in some remoted area of the world.

Dialogue 2 (Continuation)

Tourist B: And where does the Congress come into picture?

Guide: To begin with, none of this country’s far-reaching, programs — participation in the United Nations, economic, technical and military assistance — would have been possible without congressional action.

Tourist C: The annual appropriations of funds for enormous military build up, I presume, need congressional approval, too?

Guide: Absolutely so, but only on the recommendations of the Armed Services and Appropriations Committees of both Houses.

Tourist D: Who are the members of numerous House and Senate Committees?

Guide: They are usually experienced and authoritative members of Congress with long service. Their inspections abroad and participation in US delegations to the UN General Assembly and to many other international conferences give them firsthand experience with US foreign problems.

Tourist A: Who informs the members of Congress on the current foreign policy issues?

Guide: The Secretary of State does. He meets regularly with the members of Senate and House Committees and brief s them on a broad range of foreign policy matters. They are kept well-informed of the international developments affecting this country.

Tourist B: Does the State Department provide these bodies with comprehensive reports on US foreign policy?

Guide: To further facilitate the relationship with the Congress, the Secretary of State annually provides the Committees with a comprehensive report on US Foreign Policy.

Tourist D: Any other channels of communication with the Congress?

Guide: Yes, a constant and substantial interchange of views between the members of the Congress and the Department goes on through the Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations.

Tourist D: Very well, Sir. On behalf of the foreign students I should like to thank you for a very interesting and detailed talk on the congressional participation in foreign policymaking.

WORDS AND WORD COMBINATIONS YOU MAY NEED

a critical decision решение по важному, не терпящему отлагательств вопросу

to attend to matters уделять внимание вопросам

the first-ranking member of the Cabinet член кабинета, занимающий наиболее высокое положение

manifold а многочисленный, разнообразный

rescue v спасать, оказывать помощь

annual appropriations годовые ассигнования

military build up наращивание военных сил

numerous a многочисленный

firsthand experience личный опыт

 

G. MISCELLANEA

1. Dealing with Complaint

Mr Stogov: Hello, is that Parson’s Garage?

Telephone Voice: Yes, this is Fred Parson.

Mr Stogov: Good. This is Stogov. What I wanted to say, was that I can’t quite understand why you have sent me another bill for ₤25, considering that I’ve paid this bill already. I think it was at least four weeks ago.

Telephone Voice: Oh, sorry about that. You see, we’ve got a new girl in the office and she hasn’t quite got the hang of things yet. Just ignore it, will you? Sorry to have caused you this inconvenience. It won’t happen again, — at least, I hope not.

Mr Stogov: So do I. Good afternoon.

2. Thank You Talk

Mr Saveliev: Could I speak to Mr Abbott, please?

Mr Abbott: Speaking.

Mr Saveliev: Good morning, Mr Abbott. This is Saveliev.

Mr Abbott: Good morning, Mr Saveliev. I am glad to hear from you. How are you?

Mr Saveliev: Fine, and you, Jack?

Mr Abbott: I am fine, too.

Mr Saveliev: Thank you for the birthday card and the champagne. The card gave me as much pleasure as the wine.

Mr Abbott: How was it, good?

Mr Saveliev: It’s the best champagne I have ever had. You certainly hit the spot with your gift. We missed both of you at the birthday party.

Mr Abbott: It’s a pity Alice and I could not come. But you know the reason.

Mr Saveliev: Yes, I do. We drank to your health. I hope you’ll come to my wife’s birthday party this spring.

Mr Abbott: Of course, we’ll be happy to. Best regards to Irene.

Mr Saveliev: Thank you. Say hello to Alice, please.

Mr Abbott: I will, good-bye.

Mr Saveliev: Good-bye.

3. Asking After Health

Mr Butov: Hello. May I speak to Mr Frost, please?

Secretary: Just a moment. Mr Frost, it’s for you.

Mr Frost: Hello, who’s speaking?

Mr Butov: This is Mr Butov.

Mr Frost: Good afternoon, Mr Butov. I haven’t heard from you since October.

Mr Butov: I had the flu for a couple of weeks, but I’m fine now.

Mr Frost: I’m glad to hear that. We did have a spell of bad weather.

Mr Butov: By the way, did you hear what happened to Fred Jackson?

Mr Frost: No, what about him?

Mr Butov: He has had such a bad case in the flu that they’ve taken him to the hospital.

Mr Frost: I am sorry to hear that. Poor fellow, he won’t be able to attend the session of the Assembly, then.

Mr Butov: I’m afraid not. And what about you, Mr Frost? Will you be present at the session?

Mr Frost: Unless I get ill.

Mr Butov: I hope you won’t. See you on Tuesday. Good-bye.

Mr Frost: Good-bye, Mr Butov.

4. Ordering Foodstuffs

Operator: Hello. Supermarket. Can I help you?

Mr Petrov: Hello. This is Petrov speaking. I’d like you to send me some things, please.

Operator: I’ll put you through to the Deliveries Department.

Mr Petrov: Thank you.

Deliveries Department: Good morning. Deliveries.

Mr Petrov: I’d like some things sent this morning, please.

D.D.: I’m afraid we can’t manage anything this morning. One of the van men hasn’t reported for work today. I’ll do my best to arrange it for this afternoon. May I have your name, please?

Mr Petrov: Mr Petrov. 14, Hereford Drive.

D.D.: Thank you. What would you like?

Mr Petrov: Eight pounds of potatoes to start with; a large sliced loaf; a medium-sized cauliflower; a pound of beef sausages; half a pound of minced beef; a large bag of self-raising flour; half a dozen large eggs. That’s all.

D.D.: I’m not sure whether we keep beef sausages. Excuse me a moment. I’ll just check that. (He goes off to check and then comes back.) Hello. No, I’m sorry. We’ve got pork sausages.

Mr Petrov: I’ll try that then. By the way, you forgot to send the invoice with my last order. Send it this time, will you? I’d like to settle my account as I’m going on holiday next week. Could I have a statement of what I owe?

D.D.: Yes, sir. I’ll inform the accounts section and they’ll fit in your order this afternoon and send you the statement.

Mr Petrov: Thank you. Good-bye.

D.D.: Good-bye.

5. Flight Delays

Mr Blake: Good afternoon, Mr Vasiljev. This is Blake from the Protocol Department.

Mr Vasiljev: Good afternoon, Mr Blake.

Mr Blake: I’d like to bring to your attention that Flight 903 by which the Polish Delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Trade and Shipping is due to get to London is delayed. We’ve just had a message that owing to a dense fog all aircraft bound for London has been diverted to Amsterdam.

Mr Vasiljev: Thank you very much for letting us know. I wonder if you would be so kind as to give us a ring when you are sure of the time the plane will be arriving.

Mr Blake: Yes, don’t you worry. I’ll certainly do that. Good-bye.

Mr Vasiljev: Good-bye.

6. Making a Call from a Call-box

A gentleman enters a telephone call-box in a hurry, takes off the receiver and dials the number of trunk-call service at the exchange.

Operator: Trunk service. Number, please?

G.: Victoria 2904. I say, operator, will you hurry it up for me as I have to catch a train in a few minutes.

O.: Unless your number is engaged, I can put you through almost at once. Drop your coin, please, and press button A as soon as your number answers.

(The gentleman drops a coin and presently hears a high-pitched sound at the other end, the engaged signal.)

O.: I’m sorry, sir, your number is engaged. Will you press button В to get your money back? I suggest you try again in a minute or two.

G.: All right.

(After a while he rings the exchange once more.)

O.: Trunk service.

G: Will you try Victoria 2904 once more for me, please?

O.: Drop your coin, please. I have got your number! Hold the line, please.

G. (hears a voice): Are you there?

Voice (at the other end): This is Mr Jones’ house, 24 Strethem Road.

G: Oh, it’s you, Mary. Will you fetch Mrs Jones as quickly as you can.

Mrs Jones: Is that you, George, dear? How are you? So happy to hear your voice again! When will you be home again?

G.: I can’t hear you, dear. Your voice is ever so faint. There’s some background noise interfering.

O.: Can you hear your number all right?

G: No, I cannot, operator. Will you try and clear the line for me, please?

O.: Hold a minute, please. I think that’s better now.

G.: Are you there? Is that you, Lucy, dear? I say, can you hear me?

Mrs Jones: Yes, dear, I can.

G.: I’m arriving at Victoria at 5.40 this afternoon. Will you come to meet me there?

Mrs Jones: Certainly, dear.

O.: Your time is up. If you want to speak on drop another six-pence, please.

G: All right, dear, so long.

EXERCISES

I. Read these dialogues and reproduce them as close to the text as possible.

II. What would you say on the phone in reply to these remarks or questions?

1. Nick had a bad case in the flu and he was taken to the hospital. 2. The train from Liverpool is delayed. 3. Your number doesn’t answer. 4. I am having my birthday party next Saturday. I wonder if you and your wife would care to come. 5. Would you like to make a personal call or a station-to-station call? 6. There is no direct service between Washington and Madison, but let me see what the best connecting point is. 7. We would like you to confirm your reservation in writing. 8. I’m calling you to inquire about books by Soviet contemporary writers. Where can I get them? 9. Then could you manage to come over on Monday at eleven o’clock? 10. I was delighted to hear of your promotion. Congratulations!

III. In what situations would you say the following?

1. Sorry to have caused you this inconvenience. 2. Say hello to your wife, please. 3. I’m afraid he won’t be able to attend the conference. 4. I wonder if Flight 753 is due to get to London on schedule. 5. The aircraft bound for Moscow has been diverted to Amsterdam. 6. I wonder if you would be so kind as to give me a ring when you come to know the date of his departure. 7. I’m pretty sure we’re free on Sunday but I’ll have to check with my wife. 8. My call is really urgent. 9. No, thank you. I’ll call back later. 10. How long will it take to have my suit pressed? 11. Could you tell me when you have flights from here to Moscow? 12. You hit the spot with your gift.

IV. Make calls according to these assignments:

1. You had your TV set repaired. But it does not work well. Report your complaint to the TV repair shop. 2. Thank your friends who sent you a birthday card and a gift. 3. Your colleague has been taken ill. Ask after his health. 4. Ask the Deliveries Department to send you foodstuffs. 5. The delegation which was due to be in London on Monday is delayed. Call off the meeting with the President of the Steel Corporation.

Read the dialogues aloud working in groups of two.