input question: M: Some of these books aren't so old, though... See? This mystery was published only six years ago. It cost seventy-five cents. You can't beat that. W: Hey! Look at this! M: What? Are you getting interested in nineteenth century poetry all of a sudden? W: No. Look at the inscription! Someone gave this book as a present, and wrote a note on the inside of the front cover. It's dated 1893. Maybe it's worth something. M: Everything on that shelf is worth fifty cents. W: But if this is a signature of someone who is well known, it might bring a lot more. I hear William Shakespeare's signature is worth about a million dollars. What was said before this conversation????
output answer: W: I enjoy going through a secondhand bookstore, don't you? It's interesting to see what people used to enjoy reading. Did you see this old book of children's stories?
W: So soon. It seems as if you've just got here. M: I feel that way, too, but they say all good things must come to an end. W: It certainly has been a pleasure seeing you again and renewing old memories. M: I've had a nice time and I really want to thank you for spending so much time showing me the sights. W: Oh. It was fun for me, too. It gave me the chance to get away from my everyday work and do something a little bit different. M: You'll be out to see us next year, then, as you promised? W: Oh, yes. That's our present plan unless something bad comes up. We should be there sometime in early September. M: We'll be expecting you. What was said before this conversation?
----
Answer: M: The time has come to say goodbye.
Q: W: I can't wait to see Canada, Jason, but I'm scared stiff of the journey. My husband insists on flying, but I want to sail. Planes make me nervous. M: There's nothing to be frightened of. How many planes fly across the Atlantic every day? W: I've no idea. Hundreds, I suppose. M: And how often do you hear of a crash? Once or twice a year? W: Yes, but aero-planes fly so high and fast that once is enough. M: There are more road accidents per day than air deaths per year. Air transport is really safe compared with road transport. W: I still prefer to go by sea. Ships may not travel fast but as least you can relax. I'd love a trip on a luxury liner like the Queen Elizabeth II. M: It's fine if you're a good sailor, but have you ever traveled far in a rough sea? W: No. I've only been in a boat once. I sailed down the River Thames on a sightseeing tour, but in any case I'd rather be sea - sick than dead. What was said before this conversation?
A: M: Are you looking forward to your trip to Canada, Susan?
Question: W: Yes, the power indicator was on, and it was running, but somehow the sound didn't come through. What was said before this conversation?
Answer: M: Did you check the power plug and press the play button?
[Q]: W: Can't you read? That was 10 MPH over the limit. What was said before this conversation?
****
[A]: M: Why are you giving me a ticket for speeding, officer? I was only on 50.
Problem: Given the question: M: The regular-priced ones are here. Plus, we have some on sale over on that table. What was said before this conversation?
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The answer is:
W: Excuse me, where can I find dictionaries?