The plot was thrilling. But frankly speaking I didn't like the acting.
I must say, I don't agree. The leading actors were superb. And what's your opinion?
I'd rather say it's one of the best movies I have ever seen. I was greatly impressed by it.
So, it's worth seeing, isn't it?
I think so. At least I wasn't bored.
(Comes in) Oh, Arthur, we've been looking for you.
What's happened?
We need a doctor badly. My colleague from Spain is feeling bad.
Should I go and see him straight away?
The sooner the better. I hate to trouble you, but...
(Coming) There's no need to worry. The doctor was sent for 10 minutes ago thanks to our guide.
Sorry for the trouble.
No trouble at all. Has your colleague caught a cold?
Most unlikely. He neither coughs not sneezes.
What seems to be the matter?
Yesterday he had a headache. The day before yesterday he complained of a toothache and earache.
It's a strange case.
I'm sure he's been working too hard lately. Last time I saw him he looked pale and tired.
It's all nerves. Most likely he needs a rest and then he'll be fine.
(Half an hour later)
What did the doctor say? Pneumonia, flu, rheumatism?
Nothing of the kind!
Is it very serious?
I'm afraid so.
As far as I can judge, pills, drops, powders, mixtures are useless in this case.
What do you mean?
It's a virus. It's as old as the hills. Nobody can cure it. No medicine can help. It takes time to recover.
It seems to me I know what you're driving at. The man hasn't fallen ill. He's hopelessly in love. And if I'm not mistaken the virus is blonde, blue-eyed, slim, long-legged and with an irresistible smile.
Well, I never!
I suggest we invite your colleague to join us. We should distract him from his illness.
Tell him after rain comes fair weather.
Before I forget, I'm making a long-distance call in 5 minutes or so.
Keep your fingers crossed for me! A lot depends on my talk with the editor.
Good luck!
See you later!
* * *
I'm putting you through.
Hello, may I speak to Mr Anderson, please?
Just a minute. What's your name, please?
Mona Doan. I'm calling from Moscow. The call is urgent.
Hold the line, please.
Hello, Anderson speaking.
Hello, hello, Mr Anderson. Can you hear me well?
Hello, is that you, Mona?
Yes, of course. Glad you recognized my voice.
I've read your article. It's really exciting. But there is one little thing I'd like to agree upon.
Pardon? I can't hear you well.
I say, there's one little thing I'd like to agree upon. You know quite well we publish home news, foreign affairs, feature articles, fashion, business and sport news. So, our paper has got very limited space for science news.
I'm afraid it isn't fair.
I don't understand what you mean. I suggest you shorten the article. I insist on it.
It seems to me the article is short enough as it is.
Take it easy. I promise all your articles will be published in our next issues. I'll arrange it for you.
Whatever you say, Mr Anderson.
I hope you've got me right. The compromise is not as bad as that, is it?
No, of course not.
Besides I'd like you to send us some more material on life in Russia. The circulation of our paper hasn't gone up as yet. We should attract more readers. Agreed?