Ex. 12. Read the conversations and act them out

1.

Jill's mother is the manageress of a large store in Hertford. Before Jill left for America, she went to her mother's store. She needs some new things for the journey.

Mrs Harper: W ell, Jill. What sort of clothes do you need?

Jill: I'd better get a new overcoat. My old one doesn't fit me any more.

Mrs Harper: All right, let's ask the assistant. Miss Robertson, my daughter wants to buy an overcoat. Assistant: How about this one? This model is very fashionable at the moment. It's very popular.

(Jill tries it on and looks at herself in a long mirror)

Jill: Yes, I like the style - but the color doesn't suit me. Do you have the same model in other colors? Assistant: I'm afraid not.

Mrs Harper: Perhaps we can find a better one when we go to London.

Jill: I hope so. I want some new shoes, too. I saw a nice pair in the window.

Mrs Harper: All right. Is there anything else?

Jill: I want to buy some tights - and let's look at the suitcases.

Mrs Harper: You don't have to buy a new one. You can borrow mine. But you must buy a new pair of trousers. You can't wear those dirty old jeans anymore. Look, here's a nice pair.

Jill: Mmmm. They're a bit old-fashioned. I may find something more suitable in London.

Mrs Harper: And more expensive!

2.

- What can I do for you, madam?

- Could you let me see that red dress in the window?

- I'm afraid, it'll be too tight for you. How do you like this one, madam?

- It's another style, but I like it too. (Tries it on.) Does it look fine on me?

- Very fine, indeed. -I'll take it.

- You've chosen very well, madam. It'll wear for ages. Anything else?

- Could you show me a light grey shirt?

- How do you like this one? Isn't it lovely?

- Sure it is. By the way, if the shirt doesn't fit my son, can I bring it back later?

- Why, yes. You'll be able to exchange it or get a refund. -Good.

- Will you pay cash?

- Yes.

- Thank you, madam.

3.

- Can I help you?

- No, it's all right. I'm just looking.

- Have a look around then. May be you would like something in our shop.

- I like this navy-blue jacket very much. Can I try it on?

- Certainly. The fitting room is in the right-hand corner.

- Oh, it suits me very well, doesn't it?

- That's a really nice jacket. Pure wool, a modern fashion.

- How much is it? - $ 55. English clothes are really good value. They are so well-made.

- All right. I can afford the price.

4.

- Can I help you?

- Yes, please. I would like to have something from this shopping list.

- Oh, your shopping list is very big. We stock only three items you ask for: butter, milk and cheese.

- Two packets of butter, a pound of cheese and three bottles of milk please.

- Here you are. Pay by check at the cash desk.

- Excuse me, do you happen to know where I could find some meat and beef sausages?

- They are sold at the butcher's.

- And I wonder if you stock any cigarettes here?

- I'm afraid we don't. You should try the shop next door for the cigarettes.