Changing narration
Using indirect speeches
1
"All will need to wear masks and maintain health guidelines at educational institutes. The decision may be changed if the COVID-19 situation deteriorates," said the Education Minister. Regarding the vaccination of the under-12 she said, "The decision will be taken as per the recommendation of the technical committee as per availability of vaccines." Meanwhile, the Health Minister said, "Those between the age group 12-18 may have an opportunity to receive Moderna or Pfizer vaccines as per recommendation of the World Health Organization.
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The Education Minister said that all would need to wear masks and maintain health guidelines at educational institutes. The Minister added that the decision might be changed if the COVID-19 situation deteriorated. Regarding the vaccination of the under-12, she again said that the decision would be taken as per the recommendation of the technical committee as per availability of vaccines. Meanwhile the Health Minister said that those between the age group 12-18 might have an opportunity to receive Moderna or Pfizer vaccines as per recommendation of the World Health Organization.
2
"Where do you come from?" I asked him. "From San Carlos," he said, and smiled. "I was taking care of animals," he explained. "Oh," I said, not quite understanding. "Yes," he said, "I stayed, you see, taking care of animals. I was the last one to leave the town of San Carlos.’’ ‘’What animals were they?’’ ‘’Various animals,’’ he said, and shook his hand.
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I asked him where he came from. He smilingly replied that he came from San Carlos. Then he explained that he had been taking care of animals. Not quite understandingly I reacted to what he had said. He confirmed me saying that he had stayed there only for taking care of animals and added that he had been the last one to leave the town of San Carlos. I asked him what animals they had been. He shook his head and replied that they had been various animals.
3
"Follow my example," she said as we shook hands, "and never eat more than one thing for luncheon." "I'll do better than that," I retorted. "I'll eat nothing for dinner tonight." "Humorist!" she revenge at last. I do not believe that I am a vindictive man. But today she weighs twenty-one stone!."
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As we shook hands, she advised me to follow her example and never to eat more than one thing for luncheon. Then I retorted that I would do better than that by eating nothing for dinner that night. Then jumping into a cab, she cried gaily and said that I was quite a humorist. Being complacent, I said that I had had my revenge at last and added that I did not believe that I was a vindictive man, but surprisingly that day she weighed twenty-one stone.
4
"How much do you want?" said the Mayor. "A thousand guilders," said the Pied Piper. "All right," said the Mayor, ‘’We’ll give you a thousand guilders. When will you set to work?" "Now," replied the Pied Piper. "But you must fulfil your promise." "Certainly we will do so if you can really drive away the rats from the town."
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The Mayor asked the Pied Piper how much he wanted. The Pied Piper replied that he wanted a thousand guilders. The Mayor agreed and said that they would give him (P) a thousand guilders. The Mayor again asked the Pied Piper when he would (P) set to work. The Pied Piper promptly replied that he would start working then. But the piper reminded him (M) that he (M) had to fulfil his (M) promise. The Mayor said that they would certainly do so if he (p) could really drive away the rats from the town.
5
"Where do you like to go, sir?" asked the ticket seller. "Cox's Bazar,' replied the stranger. "How many tickets do you need?" "I will buy five tickets." "Take these tickets. They will cost three thousand taka," said the ticket seller. "Here is the money." "Thank you. May your journey be pleasant," said the ticket seller.
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The ticket seller politely asked the stranger where he liked to go. The stranger replied that he liked to go to Cox's Bazar. The ticket seller again asked him (s) how many tickets he (s) needed. In reply, he (s) said that he (s) would buy five tickets. Then the ticket seller told him (s) to take those tickets and also said that they (tickets) would cost three thousand taka. The stranger said that there was the money. Then the ticket seller thanked him (s) and wished that his (s) journey might be pleasant.
6
"Have you saved something for the future?" said the rich man. "No" said the cobbler. "I am happy with the present and think little about tomorrow." "No, that would not do," said the rich man. "I like to see you above want. Have this money and keep it." "What a great amount of money it is! Where will I keep so much money?" whispered the cobbler to himself.
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The rich man asked the cobbler if he (c) had saved something for future. The cobbler replied in the negative. He (c) added that he was happy with the present and thought little about the next day. Then the rich man disagreed and said that would not do. He (rich man) told the cobbler that he liked to see him (c) above want. He (r) then told the cobbler to have that money and keep it. The cobbler exclaimed in astonishment that it was a very great amount of money and whispered to himself where he would keep so much money.
7
He said to me, "I am very sorry to trouble you, but I shall be much obliged if you will kindly lend me your dictionary." "I shall be very glad to be of service to you, and you are welcome to any of my books that you think of use to you," said I. "You are my true friend and I am happy that I have such a friend," said he. "I am also happy that you, as my friend, are honest, studious and pious," said I.
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He told me very politely that he was very sorry to trouble me but he would be much obliged if I would kindly lend him my dictionary. In reply, I told him that I would be very glad to be of service to him, and he was welcome to any of my books that he thought to be of use to him. Out of gratefulness, he said that I was his true friend and he was happy that he had such a friend. Then I told him that I was also happy that he, as my friend, was honest, studious and pious.
8
"My sons," said he, "A great treasure lies hidden in the estate. I am about to leave you." "Where is it hidden?" said the sons. "I am about to tell you," said the old man. "But you must dig the land for it." "OK, we will do so." "In the process of getting something, we have no alternative but to work hard, said the old man.
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Drawing the attention of his sons, the old man told them that a great treasure lay hidden in the estate and he added that he was about to leave them. The sons curiously asked him where it was hidden. In reply, the old man told them that he was about to tell them. He added that they must dig the land for it. The sons agreed and said that they would do the same. Then the old man said that in the process of getting something, they had no alternative but to work hard.
9
"Have you learnt your lessons?" father said to Arman. "No, I've forgotten," said he. "That's very bad. You must be more careful about your preparation for the examination. By doing so, you can make a good result," said his father. "Thank you very much for your timely advice. I'll be serious about my preparation for the examination." "May Allah bless you," said father.
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Father asked Arman if he (A) had learnt his (A) lessons. Arman replied that he had not and said that he had forgotten. Father said that it was very bad and added that he (A) had to be more careful about his (A) preparation for the examination. He (f) also added that he (A) could make a good result by doing so. Arman thanked his father very much for his (f) timely advice and promised that he (A) would be serious about his (A) preparation for the examination. Then his father prayed that Allah might bless him (A).
10
"Why are you crying? Do you have any problem?" asked the passer-by. "I am crying because I have none to look after me," said the street child. "Are you hungry?" "Yes, I am," said the boy. "Will you go to my home and live with us?" "I will be very happy if you kindly take me to your home to live with you."
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The passer-by asked the street child why he (child) was crying and if he (child) had any problem. The street child replied that he was crying because he had none to look after him. Then, the passer-by asked the child if he (child) was hungry. The boy affirmatively replied that he was hungry. Then the passer-by asked the child if he (child) would go to his (passer-by) home and live with them. The child replied that he (child) would be very happy if he (passer-by) would kindly take him (child) to his (passer-by) home to live with them.
11
"Why did you stop me? I didn't do anything wrong, did I?" asked Riyad. "You were driving too fast,' said the traffic sergeant, giving him a glare, "Now, show me your driving license." "Here is my driving license. " "OK, but never drive so fast on the road for the sake of the safety of yourself and others."
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Riyad asked the traffic sergeant why he (s) had stopped him (R). He (R) confidently said that he (R) hadn't done anything wrong. Giving him (R) a glare, the traffic sergeant replied that he (R) had been driving too fast and angrily ordered Riyad to show him (s) his (R) driving license at once. Riyad said that there was his driving licence. Then the traffic sergeant said that it was OK and advised him (R) never to drive so fast on the road for the sake of the safety of himself and others.
12
"Have you cut your nails short?" the teacher said to Maruf "No. I've forgotten, sir." said Maruf. "That's very bad. You must be more careful about neatness and cleanliness. By doing so, you can prevent diarrhoea and some other diseases too," said the teacher. "I'll try my level best to follow your advice," said Maruf. "I'm pleased that you've realized the importance of hygiene," said the teacher.
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The teacher asked Maruf if he (M) had cut his (M) nails short. Maruf politely replied in the negative that he (M) had forgotten. The teacher said that it was very bad. He (t) added that he (M) had to be more careful about neatness and cleanliness. He (t) also added that he (M) could prevent diarrhoea and some other diseases too by doing so. Maruf said that he (M) would try his (M) level best to follow his (t) advice. Then the teacher said that he (t) was pleased that he (M) had realized the importance of hygiene.
13
"Whose picture is it?" I asked. "A little girl's of course," said Grandmother. "Can't you tell?" "Yes, but did you know the girl?" "Yes, I knew her," said Granny, "But she was a very wicked girl and I shouldn't tell you about her. But I'll tell you about the photograph. It was taken in your grandfather's house, about sixty years ago and that's the garden wall, and over the wall there was a road going to town."
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I asked grandmother whose picture it was. In reply, grandmother said that it was of course the picture of a little girl. She asked me if I couldn't tell. I replied that I could tell and then I asked her if she had known the girl. At that, grandmother replied saying that she had known her and added that she (girl) had been a very wicked girl and she should not tell me about her (girl). She also added that she would tell me about the photograph which had been taken in my grandfather's house about sixty years ago and that was the garden wall and over the wall there had been a road going to town.
14
"Will you buy my hair?" asked Della. "I buy hair," said Madame, "Take your hat off and let's have a sight at the locks." "Twenty dollars," said Madame, lifting the mass with a practiced hand. "OK, give me the money swiftly. I am in great need of the money."
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Della asked Madame if she (M) would buy her (D) hair. Madame replied that she (M) bought hair and told her (D) to take her (D) hat off and proposed to her (D) that they should have a sight at the locks. Lifting the mass with a practised hand, Madame wanted to give her (D) twenty dollars. Della readily agreed and told her (M) to give the money swiftly. She (D) added that she (D) was in great need of the money.
15
A cat hearing that a hen was laid up sick in her nest, paid her a visit of condolence and said, "How are you, my dear? What can I do for you? Only tell me. Is there anything in the world that I can bring for you?" "Thank you," said the hen. "Do you be good enough to leave me, and I have no fear but I shall soon be well." "OK, I am leaving you. The news of your sickness made me anxious and so I have rushed to you.
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A cat hearing that a hen was laid up sick in her nest, paid her a visit of condolence and asked her endearingly how she was and what he could do for her. He requested her to only tell him if there was anything the world that he could bring for her. The hen thanked and asked him if he would be good enough to leave her because she had no fear and soon she would be well. The cat agreed to her proposal and told her that he was leaving her and out of sympathy told her that the news of her sickness had made him anxious and so he had rushed to her.
16
One day Hazrat Omar (R) became shocked to see the sufferings of a woman and said, "Where do you live?" The woman said, "I live in a poor hut south end to this town. I'm hungry but there is no food in my house. Will you give me something to eat?" Hazrat Omar (R) said, "Go back home. I'm coming with food and money for you." After some time, Hazrat Omar (R) coming back with some food and money said to the woman, "Take the food items and money and eat to your heart's content." The woman burst into crying out of deep gratefulness and said, "May Allah bless you. You are great."
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One day, Hazrat Omar (R) became shocked to see the sufferings of a woman and asked her where she lived. The woman replied that she lived in a poor hut south end to that town. She then added that she was hungry but there was no food in her house. Again, she asked Hazrat Omar (R) if he would give her something to eat. In reply, Hazrat Omar (R) told her to go back home and assured her that he was coming with food and money for her. After some time, Hazrat Omar (R) coming back with some food and money told the woman to take the food items and money and eat to her heart's content. Out of deep gratefulness, the woman burst into crying and prayed that Allah might bless him. She added that he was great.
17
"Why are you loitering here and there now? Are you in trouble?" said the school teacher. ‘’I am loitering because I have none to take care of me," said the boy. The school teacher said, "Do you feel hungry?" "Yes, I am very hungry now," said the boy. "Take this money and go to hotel to eat to your heart's content. And after the break meet the Headmaster and me so that we can help you.
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The school teacher asked the boy why he was loitering here and there then. He (t) also wanted to know (b) if he (b) was in trouble. The boy replied that he was loitering because he had none to take care of him (b). Then the school teacher asked him (b) if he (b) felt hungry. The boy replied that he (b) was very hungry then. The school teacher told him (b) to take that money and to go to hotel to eat to his (b) heart's content. He (t) also told him (b) to meet the Headmaster and him (t) after the break so that they could help him (b).
18
"Why are your children crying, my daughter?" said the Caliph. "They have been starving," said the woman. "Have you none else in the world?" "My husband died some months ago. He left them neither money nor any property. So, they are in great distress. They have to starve sometimes." "Oh! Let me see, how I can help you," said the Caliph.
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Addressing the woman as his daughter, the Caliph asked her why her children were crying. The woman replied that they had been starving. The Caliph further asked the woman if she had none else in the world. She replied that her husband had died some months before. She further said that he had left them neither money nor any property and so they were in great distress. She also added that they had to starve sometimes. Being touched, the Caliph told her that he might be allowed to see how he could help her.
19
"Do you know Bangladesh Open University offers an English self-learning course?" Sejan said to Shawan. "Yes, I have heard it from my father who works as a tutor of the course. It is a six-month course known as CELP," said Shawan. "How is this course conducted?" asked Sejan. "BTV broadcasts the lessons of this course every morning from 7:00 am to 8:00 am," said Shawan.
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Sejan asked Shawan if he (Shawan) knew Bangladesh Open University offered an English self-learning course. Shawan affirmatively replied that he had heard it from his father who worked as a tutor of the course. He (Shawan) added that it was a six-month course known as CELP. Sejan asked him (Shawan) how that course was conducted. Shawan replied that BTV broadcast the lessons of the course every morning from 7:00 am to 8:00 am.
20
"Please give me your English grammar book," said Fahim. "I cannot give it," said Arman. "I have to take it with me in the class." I shall return the book before the class starts," said Fahim. "Take it," said Arman. "Thanks," said Fahim. "After college, we shall discuss some grammatical points," said Arman. “OK, we shall do so,’’ said Fahim.
See Answer
Fahim requested Arman to give him (F) his (A) English Grammar book. Arman said that he (A) could not give it because he (A) had to take it with him (A) in the class. Fahim said that he (F) would return the book before the class started. Then Arman agreed and told him (F) to take it. Fahim thanked him (A). Then Arman proposed that after college they should discuss some grammatical points. Fahim agreed with him (A). saying that they would do the same.
21
Returning home, my mother said to me, "Your progress in studies is very slow. You always move about with a group of your friends. Aren't you idling away your time with them? Can't you be more serious?" "I am sorry and I will amend myself," I replied. "You should bear in mind that student life is the period for preparation for the future career. So, you must make the best use of this period."
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Returning home, my mother told me that my progress in studies was very slow. She also blamed me for always moving about with a group of my friends. She asked me if I wasn't idling away my time with them. She again asked me if I couldn't be more serious. I apologized to her saying that I would amend myself. She again said that I should bear in mind that student life is the period for preparation for the future career and so I had to make the best use of that period.
22
"Stop writing now. The time is over." The student said, "Sir, wait for a few more minutes. I came late owing to my being caught in traffic jam." "That can't be an excuse. The authority is not responsible for your delay," said the teacher. "Sorry, sir, please take the script," said the student. "Thank you for conforming to the rule. I am really sorry for your misfortune," said the teacher.
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The teacher ordered the student to stop writing then and told him that the time was over. The student respectfully told the teacher to wait for a few more minutes. He (s) also told him (t) that he (s) had come late owing to his being caught in traffic jam. Then the teacher told him that that couldn't be an excuse and added that the authority was not responsible for his delay. The student respectfully apologized and requested the teacher to take the script. Then the teacher thanked him (s) for conforming to the rule. He (t) added that he (t) was really sorry for his (s) misfortune.
23
"I came here yesterday from my village," he said. "Why did you come?" I asked. "My mother sent me to you with this letter." "How is your mother? I have not seen her for a long time. I hope she is quite well." "Yes, she is well but somewhat worried about me. She has sent me to you so that you can help me get a good job."
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He told me that he had gone there the previous day from his village. I asked him why he had gone. He replied that his mother had sent him to me with that letter. I then asked him how his mother was and told him that I had not seen her for a long time. I further told him that I hoped she was quite well. He affirmed my positive conjecture by saying that she was well but she was somewhat worried about him. He also added that she had sent him to me so that I could help him get a good job.
24
The giant looked at the fisherman and said, "Speak to me more politely or I'll kill you." "Why will you kill me?" asked the fisherman, "I've just freed you. Have you forgotten that?" "No," answered the giant, "But that'll not stop me from killing you." "Now, tell me how you will like to be killed," said the giant. The fisherman said, "I don't believe you were inside the vase. Before killing me, please show me how you were in the vase."
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The giant looked at the fisherman and ordered/threatened him (f) to speak to him (g) more politely or he (g) would kill him (f). The fisherman asked the giant why he (g) would kill him (f). Then he (f) reminded him (g) that he (f) had just freed him (g) and again asked him (g) if he (g) had forgotten that. The giant replied in the negative but told him (f) that it would not stop him (g) from killing him (f). Then the giant ordered the fisherman to tell him (g) how he (f) would like to be killed. The fisherman said that he didn't believe that he (g) had been inside the vase and requested him (g) to show how he (g) had been in the vase before killing him (f).
25
A hawker said to me, "Do you want any newspaper? I have all types of newspapers. Please take one." I said, "I want a weekly magazine. Do you have any magazine?" He said, "Yes, I have a magazine named "The Sugandha.’’ "What's the price of it?" I asked. "Twenty-five taka only." "OK, give me one copy," said I.
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A hawker asked me if I wanted any newspaper. He added that he had all types of newspapers and requested me to take one. I said that I wanted a weekly magazine and asked him if he had any magazine. In reply, he said that he had a magazine named 'The Sugandha.' Then I asked him what the price of it was. The hawker replied that its price was twenty-five taka only. I was convinced and told him to give me one copy.
26
The teacher said to Kamal, "Why are you talking in the class? You should behave yourself." Kamal replied, "Sir, I am sorry. I am asking Fahim to lend me his pen. My pen has run out." The teacher said, "Be attentive and listen to my lecture. You cannot expect good results unless you listen to my lecture attentively." Kamal said, "Thank you, sir."
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The teacher asked Kamal why he (K) was talking in the class and warned him (K) that he (K) should behave himself (K). Kamal apologized and added that he (K) was asking Fahim to lend him his (F) pen as his (K) pen had run out. The teacher advised him (K) to be attentive and listen to his (t) lecture. He (t) also told Kamal that he (K) could not expect good results unless he (K) listened to his (t) lecture attentively. Kamal humbly thanked the teacher.
27
Fahim said to Hamid, "How are you? I went to your hostel yesterday, but did not find you. Where did you go?" "I went to the station," said Hamid, "I had to receive my maternal uncle there, but the train was late. So, I had to wait for him at the station."
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Fahim asked Hamid how he (H) was and added that he (F) had gone to his (H) hostel the previous day/the day before, but had not found him (H). He (F) again asked him (H) where he (H) had gone. Hamid replied that he (H) had gone to the station. He (H) added that he (H) had to receive his (H) maternal uncle there, but the train had been late and so he had to wait for him (u) at the station.
28
"Porter, you may go," said the mistress of the house laughing, "You have gained your freedom." "By Allah," he replied, "I will not leave this house until I have heard the stories of my companions."
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The mistress of the house told the porter laughing that he might go and added that he had gained his freedom. Swearing by Allah, the porter replied that he would not leave that house until he had heard the stories of his companions.
29
A fruitseller said, "What fruit do you want to buy? I have apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kashmir." "What fruits do you have of our country?" said the customer. "I have coconut, guava, jackfruit," said the fruitseller. The customer said, "Give me one kg of guava as it will be the substitute for Australian apples." "Do you need anything else?" said the fruitseller. "Give me a medium-sized jackfruit."
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A fruitseller asked the customer what fruit he (c) wanted to buy. He added that he (f) had apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling and grapes from Kashmir. The customer asked the fruitseller what fruits of their country he (the fruitseller) had. The fruitsseller said in reply that he (f) had coconut, guava and jackfruit. The customer asked the fruitseller to give him (c) one kg of guava as it would be the substitute of Australian apples. Then the fruitseller asked the customer if he needed anything else. The customer told him to give him (c) a medium-sized jackfruit.
30
"Have you finished reading the book that I gave you last night?" Kamal said to me. "Yes, I have," I replied, "What an interesting book it is! I wish I would borrow the book earlier," I said. "Will you return the book to me tomorrow?" Kamal asked. "I want to keep the book for one more day because I need to take some notes from the book," I said. Kamal said, "No, I need the book tomorrow. You can take it next week."
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Kamal asked me if I had finished reading the book that he had given me the previous night. I replied in the affirmative that I had finished reading the book. I exclaimed with wonder that it was a very interesting book and I should have borrowed the book earlier. He (K) asked me if I would return the book to him the following/next day. I said that I wanted to keep the book for one more day because I needed to take some notes from the book. He (K) disagreed and said that he (K) needed the book the following day and added that I could take the book the following week.
31
Jerry said to me, "I'll pay for it. I broke it. I brought the axe down careless." "But no one hits accurately every time," said I. "The fault was in the wood of the handle. I'll see the man who I bought it from," I added. "I'll take the money after you have talked to the seller," said Jerry. "Still you are standing back of your own carelessness," said I.
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Jerry told me that he would pay for it because he had broken it. He further said that he had brought the axe down careless. I contradicted that no one hit accurately every time. I added that the fault had been in the wood of the handle. I again added that I would see the man who I had bought it from. He said that he would take the money after I had talked to the seller. I said that he was standing back of his own carelessness till then.
32
My friend said to me, "Why are you sitting alone in your room at this hour? Don't you see the sky has been clear? Let us go out for a walk in the open field." I said angrily, "Leave me alone and get lost." My friend said, "You should behave yourself. You can share your problems with me. It will lessen your mental stress."
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My friend asked me why I was sitting alone in my room at that hour and whether I didn't see the sky had been clear. After that he proposed to me that we should go out for a walk in the open field. But I angrily told him to leave me alone and get lost. My friend told me that I should behave myself and added that I could share my problems with him. He also added that it would lessen my mental stress.
33
Jerry said, "I can chop some wood today." "But I have a boy coming from the orphanage." "I'm the boy." "You? But you are small." "Size does not matter, chopping wood," Jerry said, "Some of the big boys don't chop good, I've been chopping wood at the orphanage a long time."
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Jerry said that he could chop some wood that day. But the authoress said that she had a boy coming from the orphanage. He (J), said in reply that he (J) was the boy. Being surprised, she (a) asked him (J) if it was he (J). She (a) surprisingly said that he (J) was small. He (J) told her (a) that size did not matter chopping wood and added that some of the big boys didn't chop good. He (J) also added that he'd been chopping wood at the orphanage a long time.
34
"Who's she?" asked Mita. "She is my cousin. She just came from the village yesterday" said Nasrin. "How old is she?" asked Mita. "Same age as I am," said Nasrin. "Do you read in the same class?" "Yes," replied Nasrin. "There is a great friendship between you, isn't there," asked Mita, "Yes, we love each other a lot," said Nasrin.
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Mita asked Nasrin who she was. Nasrin replied that she was her cousin and added that she had just gone from the village the previous day. Mita asked her (N) how old she was. She (N) replied that she was the same age as she (N) was. She (M) again asked Nasrin if they read in the same class. Nasrin replied in the affirmative. Mita asked her (N) if there was a great friendship between them. Nasrin replied in the affirmative that they loved each other a lot.
35
"Good morning," said Mostofa. "Good morning. How can I help you?" said the supervisor. "Can you tell me from where I can get the schedule of the examinations?" said Mostofa. "It is on the notice board. Do you know where it is?" said the supervisor. "No," said Mostofa. "It is on the wall just beside the office room," said the supervisor. "Thanks a lot," said Mostofa. "You are always welcome," said the supervisor.
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Mostofa wished good morning to the supervisor. The supervisor also wished the same to him (M) and asked him (M) how he (s) could help him (M). He (M) asked him (s) if he (S) could tell him (M) from where he (M) could get the schedule of the examinations. He (s) replied that it was on the notice board and asked him (M) if he (M) knew where it was. He (M) replied that he did not know. He (s) then said that it was on the wall just beside the office room. Mostofa thanked him (s) profusely. Then the supervisor told him (M) that he was always welcome.
36
"Have you done your homework?" the teacher said to the student. "No, I've forgotten, sir," said the student. "That's very bad. You must be more careful about your studies. Without doing so, you can't expect a good result," said the teacher. "I also believe so. But yesterday some guests came to our house and I spent much time in their company," said the student. "You should be wiser in carrying out your responsibilities," said the teacher.
See Answer
The teacher asked the student if he had done his homework. The student respectfully replied in the negative that he (s) had forgotten. The teacher told him(s) in an unsatisfied tone that it was very bad and added that he (s) had to be more careful about his (s) studies because without doing so, he (s) could not expect a good result. The student said that he also believed so. He added that some guests had gone to their house the previous day and he had spent much time in their company. Then the teacher advised him (s) to be wiser in carrying out his (s) responsibilities.
37
"Do you know Bangladesh has won the cricket series against New Zealand?" said Hamid. "Yes I do. What a pleasure it is!" said Kabir. "We should practise more to improve our standard. Do you agree?" "Yes, nothing is possible to attain without practice," said Kabir. "The same is in the case of learning English. We have to practise English a lot to develop our communicative competence. said Hamid. Right, we are to be serious about it.
See Answer
Hamid asked Kabir if he (K) knew Bangladesh had won the cricket series against New Zealand. Kabir replied in the affirmative that he did and exclaimed with joy that it was a great pleasure. Hamid told Kabir that we (Bangladesh) should practise more to improve our (Bangladesh) standard. Then Hamid asked Kabir if he agreed. Kabir replied in the affirmative and said that nothing was possible to attain without practice. In tune with that, Hamid said that the same was in the case of learning English. He (H) added that they had to practise English a lot to develop their communicative competence. Kabir agreed with him (H) and said that they were to be serious about it.
38
It was a few years ago. I was helping out at my daughter's school when a small boy came rushing up in obvious distress. He'd badly grazed his knee but, even after cleaning it up, he continued to wail. "It'll be OK," I reassured him. "Your dad's a doctor. When you get home he'll make it better." "No, he won't," sobbed the boy. "Why not?" I asked. "Because it's his day off today," he replied. "What is your major problem, my boy, and how long" have you been suffering?" I said, "Stomach pain. I have been suffering since morning."
See Answer
It was a few years ago. I was helping out at my daughter's school when a small boy came rushing up in obvious distress. He'd badly grazed his knee but, even after cleaning it up, he continued to wail. I reassured him saying that it would be OK. I added that his dad was a doctor and also added that when he (b) got home, he (d) would make it better. At that, he (b) disagreedsobbed that he (d) would not. Then I asked him (b) why he (d) would not make it better. The boy replied that he (d) would not because it was his (d) day off that day. I endearingly asked him what his major problem was and how long he had been suffering. The boy replied that he had stomach ache and he had been suffering since morning. I told him to have that medicine from that night and assumed him that he would definitely recover.
39
"Master," he said, "Can I ask you a question?" "Oh sure." "I was absent from work yesterday and could not do the due task." "Never mind, do it today and never remain absent unnecessarily." "Thank you, sir." "You're welcome, John." "The work seems to me very easy. So, don't worry, I shall complete it by noon," said John. "I know, you are very efficient in your work." "I shall remain grateful for your kind help, sir."
See Answer
Drawing the attention of his master, John asked him if he could ask him a question. The master readily replied that he (J) could surely ask him a question. John said that he had been absent from work the pervious day and could not do the due task. He (m) told him (J) not to mind and advised him (J) to do it that day and not to ever remain absent unnecessarily. John respectfully thanked the master. The master told John that he (J) was welcome. John told his master in a happy tone that the work seemed to him (J) very easy. He requested his master not to worry and told him that he would complete it by noon. The master told him that he (m) knew that he (J) was very efficient in his (J) work. Then John politely told his master that he (J) would remain grateful to him for his kind help.
40
Looking at the prisoner, the boys said to him, "What do you want to do now?" The prisoner said, "I want to die.’’ Being melancholic, the boys said, ‘’Why do you like to do this? Life has a great meaning," The prisoner retorted, "Life is a meaningless tale narrated by an idiot. Life is a walking shadow." The boys said, "Life is short, art long. Beautify your life and enjoy the wine of life." "The wine of life is drawn and the mere lees is left this vault to brag of," he said.
See Answer
Looking at the prisoner, the boys asked him what he (p) wanted to do then. The prisoner replied that he (p) wanted to die. Being melancholic the boys again asked him why he (p) liked to do that and said that life has a great meaning. The prisoner retorted that life is a meaningless tale narrated by an idiot. He (p) also added that life is a walking shadow. Then the boys told him that life is short, art long. So, they (b) advised him (p) to beautify his (p) life and enjoy the wine of life. Then he said that the wine of life was drawn and the mere lees was left that vault to brag of.
41
"Why haven't you fed the children yet? It's almost midnight," said the Caliph. "We have been waiting here for relief for three days but couldn't meet the Caliph," replied the women. "Alas! What will I answer hereafter?" said the Caliph in the guise of a traveller. "Sisters, will you wait here for some time? I will come back soon with some food items from the Caliph." "We must wait for you if you can confirm," replied the women.
See Answer
The Caliph in the guise of a traveller asked the women why they hadn't fed the children till then. He also pointed out that it was almost midnight. In reply, the women told the Caliph (in disguise) that they had been waiting there for relief for three days but couldn't meet the Caliph. The Caliph in disguise exclaimed with sorrow and asked his conscience what he would answer thereafter. The Caliph felt offended, addressed the women as sisters and asked them if they would wait for some time. He added that he would go back soon with some food items from the Caliph. The women replied that they had to wait for him if he could confirm.
42
"And what am I supposed to do all day?" asked Rupa as she watched Jony get ready for college. Jony looked at her. "You can read, you can visit your friends or your family if you like." "Family? I have no family left after what I have done to them." "You have done nothing. I'll be back soon," he continued. "By lunch. And in the evening we'll go out." "I feel extremely bored sitting in the room. Will you give me your new novel book you bought yesterday?" "Oh sure, take the book from my bag and spend your time reading it," said Jony.
See Answer
As Rupa watched Jony get ready for college, she asked him what she was supposed to do all day. Jony looked at her and replied that she could read and visit her friends or her family if she liked. Rupa sadly asked Jony if he had mentioned her family and told him that she had no family left after what she had done to them. Jony assured her that she had done nothing and told her he would be back immediately by lunch. He added that they would go out in the evening. Rupa told Jony that she felt extremely bored sitting in the room and asked him if he would give her his new novel book he had bought the previous day. Jony assured her and told her to take the book from his bag and spend her time reading it.
43
"I never drink anything for luncheon," she said.
"Neither do I," I answered promptly. "Except white wine," she proceeded as though I had not spoken. "These French white wines are so light. They are wonderful for the digestion." "What would you like?" I asked, hospitable still, but not exactly effusive. "My doctor won't let me drink anything but champagne." I fancy I turned a trifle pale. I ordered half a bottle. I mentioned casually that my doctor had absolutely forbidden me to drink champagne.
See Answer
She told me that she never drank anything for luncheon. I answered promptly that I also never drank anything for luncheon. She proceeded as though I had not spoken saying that she never drank anything for luncheon except white wine. She added that those French white wines were so light. She also added that they were wonderful for the digestion. I asked the lady guest, hospitable still, but not exactly effusive what she would like. The lady guest ironically replied that her doctor won't let her drink anything but champagne. I fancy I turned a trifle pale. I ordered half a bottle. I mentioned casually that my doctor had absolutely forbidden me to drink champagne.
44
"Stop! You're eating all our bread." shouted the two rats. "I'm doing my best but I've told you that it's difficult," said the monkey. "Give us that little piece," said the rats. "This is my piece. Haven't I laboured a lot for you?" replied the monkey. "How foolish we are believing you!" said the rats. "Now let us call a meeting of all the rats tomorrow. We shall discuss the tricks of the monkey." They called a meeting and informed all the rats of the monkey's trick. "Drive the monkey away from the jungle," the old experienced rat said in the meeting.
See Answer
The two rats shouted at the monkey to stop and told him that he was eating all their bread. The monkey told them that he was doing his best but he had told them that it was difficult. The rats told him to give them that little piece. The monkey replied that it was his piece and asked them if he hadn't laboured a lot for them. The rats exclaimed with sorrow that they were great foolish believing him. The two rats proposed that they should call a meeting of all the rats the next day. They added that they would discuss the trick of the monkey. They called a meeting and informed all the rats of the monkey's trick. The old experienced rat told the other rats in the meeting to drive the monkey away from the jungle.
45
"Where did you go yesterday?" said Lipi. "I went to Chattogram to see my mother," said Mina. "She has been suffering from high blood pressure." "Is she sound now?" said Lipi. "No," said Mina. "She is very careless of her health. She does not follow the instructions of the doctor." "Take your mother to Dhaka. My mother is a specialist in medicine. So, come to our house with her and consult my mother," said Lipi. "Thank you so much for your advice."
See Answer
Lipi asked Mina where she (M) had gone the previous day. Mina replied that she (M) had gone to Chattogram to see her (M) mother. She (M) also said that her mother had been suffering from high blood pressure. Lipi asked Mina if she (Mina's mother) was sound then. Mina replied that she (Mina's mother) was not. Mina added that she (m) was very careless of her health and did not follow the instructions of the doctors. Then Lipi told Mina to take her (M) to Dhaka. She (L) added that her mother was a specialist in medicine. So, she told Mina to go to their (L) house with her and consult her (L) mother. Mina thanked Lipi so much for her advice.
46
"Excuse me, can you help me? I was looking for the Main Hall", said Maria. "I can. I'm looking for the Main Hall too. I think it's in the Administrative Building. Are you a new student?" said Hasan. "Yes, I am," said Maria. "Which department are you from," said Hasan. "Economic." "Where is the Administrative Building located?" "It is on the western side of this grassy lawn." "Thank you very much," said Maria. "You are welcome. I am charmed by your simplicity," said Hasan.
See Answer
Begging apology/Drawing Hasan's attention Maria asked him if he could help her. She said that she had been looking for the Main Hall. He replied that he could and that he was looking for the Main Hall too. He added that he thought it was in the Administrative Building. Then he asked her if she was a new student. She replied in the affirmative that she was a new student. Hasan asked her which department she was from. Maria replied that she was from Economics. Maria again asked Hasan where the Administrative Building was located. Hasan replied that it was located on the wester side of that grassy lawn. Maria thanked Hasan. Hasan told Maria that she was welcome. He added that he was charmed by her simplicity.
47
I told the rickshaw puller that he had carried me a long way. Then I asked him how much I should pay him. I further asked him if fifty taka would do. The rickshaw puller disagreed and said that I would pay him one hundred taka. I said that it was too much and added that I could pay him sixty taka.
See Answer
I said to the rickshaw puller, "You have carried me a long way. How much should I pay you? Will fifty taka do?" "No, sir, you will pay me one hundred taka," said the rickshaw puller. ‘’It is too much. I can pay you sixty taka," said I.
48
The teacher asked the students if they had heard the name of Aesop. The students respectfully replied that they had not and asked the teacher who he had been. The teacher advised them to listen to his lecture attentively and they would be able to know about him. He also exclaimed with wonder that his fables were very interesting and instructive. One of the students asked if fables were ordinary stories. The teacher replied in the negative and said that fables are stories with a message or a moral.
See Answer
The teacher said to the students. "Have you heard the name of Aesop?" The students said, "Sir, we have not. Who was he?" The teacher said, "Listen to my lecture attentively and you will be able to know about him. How interesting and instructive his fables are!" "Are fables ordinary stories, sir?" asked one of the students. "No, fables are stories with a message or a moral," replied the teacher.
49
Once I asked a little girl what her mother's name was. She replied that she could remember her mother's name but she would not tell me that. She added that she did not tell her mother's name to anyone whom she did not know. I exclaimed with admiration that she was a very clever girl. The girl said that I was very humorous and intelligent. I asked her in what class she read.
See Answer
Once I said to a little girl, "What is your mother's name?" "I can remember my mother's name but I will not tell you this. I do not tell my mother's name to anyone whom I do not know." "What a clever girl you are!" I said. "You are very humorous and intelligent," said the girl. "What class do you read in?’’ I asked.
50
The witness told the international crimes tribunal that he had suddenly heard a gunshot and gone towards the door. He added that he had seen many Al-Badr men and the members of the Pakistani army on his house premises. The judge asked him if he had recognized some of the Al-Badr men. The witness answered that he could recognize one Hamid in his village who had brought the members of the Pakistani army to the village.
See Answer
The witness said to the International Crimes Tribunal, "I suddenly heard a gunshot and went towards the door. I saw many Al-Badr men and the members of the Pakistani army on my house premises." The judge said to him, "Did you recognize some of the Al-Badr men?" The witness said, ‘’I could recognize one Hamid in my village who brought the members of the Pakistani army to the village."
51
The mother asked her son if he would go to college that day. Her son replied in the negative and added that their classes were suspended. She again asked him why their classes were suspended. The son replied that their classes were suspended due to COVID-19. The mother told him to go to the market then and bring some vegetables. Her son told her that he might be allowed to be ready and told her to give him money.
See Answer
"Will you go to college today?" the mother said to her son. "No, mother. Our classes are suspended. "Why?" "Due to COVID-19," said the son. "Then go to the market and bring some vegetables." "Let me be ready and give me money."
52
A fruitseller asked the customer which fruits he would need. He added that he had apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kashmir, etc. The customer asked the fruitseller what fruits of their country he had. The fruit seller readily replied that he had coconut, guava, jackfruit, etc. The customer said that he wanted one kg of guava as it would be the substitute of Australian apples. The fruit seller said that he was giving him (c) the guava. He (s) added that they were very tasty. He (s) also added that they were totally formalin-free.
See Answer
A fruitseller said, "Which fruits will you need? I have apples from Australia, oranges from Darjeeling, grapes from Kashmir, etc." The customer said, "What fruits of our country do you have?" The fruitseller said, "Well, I have coconut, guava, jackfruit, etc." "I want one kg of guava", the customer said, "As it will be the substitute of Australian apples. Well, I am giving you the guava. They are very tasty. Also they are totally formalin-free."
53
The lady guest said that I was in the habit of eating heavy luncheon. She added that she was sure it was a mistake. She then asked me why I did not follow her example and just eat one thing. The lady guest added that she was sure I would feel ever so much better for it. As the waiter came again with the bill of fare, she said that she was going to eat only one thing. She also said she never ate anything for luncheon.
See Answer
The lady guest said, "You are in the habit of eating heavy luncheon. I'm sure it's a mistake. Why don't you follow my example and just eat one thing? I am sure you will feel ever so much better for it." As the waiter came again with the bill of fare, she said, "I am going to eat only one thing. I never eat anything for luncheon."
54
The king's minister asked the fool why he was digging holes on the side of the road. He added that people passing by would put their feet in them and fall down. He also asked him if he had not thought of that. The fool wanted to know why they would fall in. He said that he had not dug in the middle of the road. He also commented that only those who left the straight road and came off the path would fall into pit. The minister said he saw the point and added that he (f) was right. Then he (m) asked the fool what his profession was. The fool replied that he was an ordinary day-labourer.
See Answer
The king's minister said to the fool, "Why are you digging holes on the side of the road? People passing by will put their feet in them and fall down. Haven't you thought of this?"
The fool said, "Why will they fall in? I have not dug in the middle of the road. Only those who leave the straight road and come off the path, will fall into pit." "O, I see. You are right. What is your profession?" asked the minister. "I am an ordinary day-fabourer," replied the fool.
55
The student greeted the clerk and said that she was there to register for the First Year Law Course. The clerk said that he would just have to fill out that form for their records. He asked her (s) what her name was. She replied that her name was Julia Perkins. He asked her what her address was. She (s) said that her address was Flat 5, 15 Waratals Road, Brisbane. The clerk asked her what her parents' names were. In reply, she said that her father's name was John Perkins and her mother’s name was Linda Perkins.
See Answer
"Hello. I'm here to register for the First Year Law Course," said the student. "I'll just have to fill out this form for our records. What's your name?" said the clerk. "Julia Perkins," said the student. "Address?" said the clerk. "Flat 5, 15 Waratals Road, Brisbane," said the student. "What are your parents' names?" ‘’My father's name is John Perkins and mother's name is Linda Perkins."
56
Addressing Mamun as her dear student Mrs. Kibria said that there would be an exam the following Monday. He (M) asked her what sort of exam it was. She (K) replied that it was an open book exam. He (M) asked her (K) if that meant he (M) could have the textbook with him during the exam. She (K) replied in the affirmative and said that he (M) was right. Mamun asked her what the purpose of that kind of exam was. In reply, she said that its purpose was to assess how much he had studied and understood the textbooks.
See Answer
"My dear student, there will be an exam next Monday," said Mrs. Kibria. "What sort of exam it is?" said Mamun. "It's an open book exam," said Mrs. Kibria. "Does it mean I can have the textbook with me during the exam?" said Mamun. "Yes, you are right," said Mrs. Kibria. "What is the purpose of this kind of exam? said Mamun. Its purpose is to assess how much you have studied and understood the textbooks," said she.
57
The mother asked the daughter if she (d) had done her homework. She (d) replied in the negative and said that she had forgotten. She (m) said that it was very bad and remarked that she (d) had to be more careful about her (d) homework. She (m) added that by doing so, she (d) could not expect to do well in her studies. The daughter said that she was sorry. Then the mother advised her (d) to be attentive and learn her (d) lesson regularly. The daughter said that truly speaking she (d) often faced problems in her study. Then the mother asked her (d) why she (d) didn't put up her (d) problem to her (m). She (m) also advised her (d) to go to her (m) whenever she faced any problem from then on.
See Answer
"Have you done your homework?" the mother said to the daughter. "No, I've forgotten," said the daughter. "This's very bad. You must be more careful about your homework. By doing so, you can't expect to do well in your studies," said the mother. "I am sorry," said the daughter. "Be attentive and learn your lesson regularly," said the mother. "Truly speaking, I often face problems in my study," said the daughter. "Why don't you put up your problem to me? From now on, you must come to me whenever you face any problem in your study."
58
The teacher asked Kabir why he (K) was talking in the class, Kabir replied that he (K) had been asking Ali about the schedule of the pre-test exam. The teacher advised him (K) not to gossip in the class and to be mindful of his (K) lesson. Kabir respectfully apologized and requested him (t) to forgive him (K) for that time. The teacher said that he (K) was pardoned that time. But he (t) also warned him (K) never to break the rules of the class. Then Kabir promised that he would never deviate from the right track.
See Answer
"Why are you talking in the class?" said the teacher. "I was asking Ali about the schedule of the pre-test exam," replied Kabir. "Don't gossip in the class. Be mindful of your lesson," said the teacher. "Sorry, sir. Please forgive me for this time," said he. "OK, you are pardoned this time. But never break the rules of the class." "I will never deviate from the right track," said Kabir.
59
The teacher asked Michael if he had done that work himself. Replying in the affirmative Michael said that he (M) had done that. The teacher commented that it seemed to have been remarkably well done by him (M). Michael replied that he had studied a lot to do those works and finally he could finish successfully. Appreciating him, the teacher replied that it was very wonderful of him (M). The teacher advised him (M) to carry on his study that way. He (t) added that then he (M) would reach the peak of success in life. Michael promised that he would try his best to follow his (t) advice.
See Answer
"Did you do this work yourself?" said the teacher. "Yes, I did this," said Michael. "It seems to have been remarkably well done by you," said the teacher. "I studied a lot to do these works and finally I could finish successfully," said Michael. "It is very wonderful of you," said the teacher. "Carry on your study this way. Then you will reach the peak of success in life." " I will try my best to follow your advice, "said Michael.
60
Asad exclaimed with sorrow that he (A) had made a terrible mistake. Kamal said that it was not surprising and added that he (A) was always making mistakes. He (K) further asked him (A) what he (A) had done. He (A) said that he had forgotten to pay his (A) exam fee. He (A) added that the previous day had been the last date. Kamal exclaimed in wonder that he (A) had grown very indifferent even about serious matter like exam. Then Asad told him (K) if he (K) could suggest any way to overcome this problem.
See Answer
"Oh! I have made a terrible mistake," said Asad. "This's not surprising, you're always making mistakes," said Kamal. "What have you done?" "I've forgotten to pay my exam fee. Yesterday was the last date," said Asad. "How indifferent you have grown even about the serious matter like exam!" said Kamal. "Can you suggest any way to overcome this problem?" said Asad.