Problem: W: Oh, that's all right. What was said before this conversation?

A: M: The tape-recorder you lent me yesterday is stolen. I'd like to buy a new one for you.

Problem: M: In 40 minutes, at eleven o'clock. The plane for Berlin leaves every two hours. W: How much is a second class ticket, please? M: We have only first class tickets left. It is $ 350 one way. W: OK. I'd like one for the next flight. M: I'm sorry, but I don't sell tickets. You can get one from the machine over there. W: All right. By the way, what's the gate number? M: Four. Down the hall and to the left. W: Thanks a lot. What was said before this conversation?

A: W: Excuse me, but could you tell me when the plane for Berlin leaves?

Problem: W: Yes. You pay the bill and I'll call the desk and have our luggage taken out to the taxi. What was said before this conversation?

A: M: Are you ready to check out?

Problem: W: No, I never am, but... M: Wow! Your coat's very dirty! Did you fall? W: Yes, I had a terrible experience on the underground train. Listen to this! A man came up to me and pulled out a knife. He pointed it right at me! M: Oh, no! Are you all right? Did he hurt you? W: No, he didn't hurt me, but he took my handbag. M: Then what happened? What did you do? W: I caught hold of his knife, and he pushed me to the floor. M: Oh, no! Why did you catch hold of his knife? That's dangerous. W: I don't know. I didn't think. M: And what did the other passengers do? Did they help you? W: Yes, they did. Two men ran after the robber and held him. M: Did the police come? W: Yeah. The conductor called a policeman, and he took the robber to the police station. M: What a story! Thank God you're all right. What was said before this conversation?

A:
M: Hello, Joan. Why are you late today? You are never late for work.