1. Telephone Conversation Walter wants to call his girlfriend Erika to share some news with her. However, her father answers the phone. V: Yes, here Schreiber... W: Hello, this is Walter Lang. V: Ah, Walter, it's good to hear from you again. So, what's going on? W: Oh, you know, the approaching graduation has us swamped with studying and work. V: Yes, of course, naturally. But you want to speak to Erika, right? W: Yes, is Erika there? W: I'm sorry, but she's not. She's playing tennis every Wednesday. V: Oh, that's a shame. W: Would you like me to give her a message or would you prefer to speak to her personally? V: I just wanted to ask her something. W: Mm, mm. V: It's about this Saturday, we've been invited to a friend's birthday party. W: Ah, I see. V: And I was just wondering if Erika could come along with me. W: Ah, yes, that's something. You know, we were planning to go to the seaside on Saturday. My wife has been there for a week now, for her health. V: Oh, I see? W: Yes, I wasn't aware of it. Erika had mentioned that her mother was planning to go in the fall. W: Well, it turned out to be more practical, better this way. V: Ah, I see. W: So, what should we do then? V: Could I call again tonight, if she's there? W: Yes, sure, but she might not be able to go to the party on Saturday... You know, we'll be late coming home that night. Call tonight and discuss it with her personally. V: Na, ja, maybe around nine would be better; she'll be back home by then. W: Yes, nine o'clock it is. I'll call you back at nine. Thank you, Mr. Schreiber, goodbye. V: Yes, goodbye.