P: How long have you been retired now, Grandpa?

T: Let me see. Er… it’s four years. Yes, I’ve been retired nearly four years now. I suppose I’m used to it after all this time. But you know, I worked for Courtaulds for over forty years. Can you believe that? Forty years.

P: One job for forty years. Incredible! I remember when you retired and they gave you that gold watch. Do you like being retired? I’d get bored. I’m sure I would. Don’t you get bored?

T: Well, I’m lucky. I’ve got my health so I can do a lot, I can get out at lot. I’ve just taken up golf, you know. It’s a wonderful sport for an old man like me. I need an excuse since Rover died. I… I miss good old Rover; he and I were great friends… but I don’t think I want another dog at my age. I go to the golf club twice a week. I’ve made some good friends there, you know. Have you met Ted and Marjorie? They’re my age. Er… They’re a lovely couple.

P: Er… I don’t think I’ve met them.

T: We went to Wales together last Easter. Oh… and we had a lovely time. I do appreciate company since your Grandma died… you know, I really miss your Grandma. Thirty-five years we were married, thirty-five years and still as much in love as the day we met. She was a wonderful lady, your Grandma.

P: Oh I know that, Grandpa. We all miss her so much. We all loved her so much.

T: So I like to keep busy.

P: Grandpa, next time, please think of me. Don’t you want a companion? Can I come with you? We never go anywhere interesting.

T: Oh, Philippa, not until you’ve finished your exams.

P: Well, I think you have more fun than I do! All I have to look forward to is exams and more exams and then years and years of work!

T: Oh, Philippa. Don’t wish your life away. Just enjoy it all. You only get one go at it!

Comprehension check

1. Underline the correct question form and then answer it.

a How long was he/has he been retired?

b How long did he work/has he worked for the textile company?

c How long was he/has he been married?

d Who did he go/has he gone to Wales with?

2. Why does he like playing golf?

3. Which countries has he visited since he retired? Where did he go two years ago?

4. Who are the following: Rover, Ted and Marjorie?

5. What are the two sad events in Thomas’ life?

6. What does Philippa complain about?

7. What does Thomas mean when he says ”You only get one go at it!”?

Discussion

- What is the usual retirement age for men and women in your country?

- What kind of thing do people like doing when they retire?

- Are attitudes to retirement changing?

- What do you think is the best age to retire?

- When would you like to retire?

- What would you like to do when you retire?

Unit 2

My Working Day

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