Have you heard the news? Everybody says we’re just about to go bust.
What? They had such big plans for expansion. What happened?
Well, the new accountant told me that the reorganisation carried out last year didn’t work out at all. The balance sheet shows only losses, so there isn’t any other way out.
Oh, dear. We will all have to look for other jobs now. And with all companies reducing employment it’s not gonna be easy.
The company these people work for is….
Listening 23
One
You know, that’s interesting that whenever people talk about Paul, they go into raptures about him.
Yes, that’s true. And I remember the day he came to our department, so self confident. And I found him very conceited.
Yeah, and the rest of the staff were afraid he’d interfere with their work too much. The beginning wasn’t fortunate.
Luckily it was only our first impression. He is so different, so approachable. Contrary to our previous boss he listens when we have a problem.
Guess what! I nearly bumped into Mike in the street but he cut me dead.
No! That’s not like him. He might not have seen you. Was he on the phone again?
No, and I waved my hand to say hello, but he pretended to look in the shop window.
That’s rude. Do you know why?
Well, he may still be angry that I criticized his speech at Diana’s wedding.
I the street Mike.
Three
I’ve heard James was punished for his absence during the ceremony. Can you believe it?
Awful, indeed. But James’s excuses just left our commander cold.
Did James tell him his wife had a car crash and was taken to hospital?
I should think so. But you know our colonel. Nothing will move his feelings. Besides, he’s made the decision and will never take it back.
The commander…
Four
Have you heard?
Shshsh! Don’t talk so loud. Keep your voice down. Rachel, this nosy parker is coming. I don’t want her around asking all those silly questions.
Why? What’s the matter? Well, she’s the one who helps the boss to learn our secrets, and she will talk to everybody about what she has heard. I didn’t know about it. We’d better keep quiet, then.