Where each occurs to those given on the list

a) doctor's surgery f) politics

b) telephone g) law court

c) pub h) church service

d) salesman at work i) weather forecast

e) classroom j) job interview

B. Look at the four extracts from letters that follow, and, with a partner, discuss the following points:

Who is writing to whom?

What is the relationship between the two people? What is the letter really about? What words best describe the tone of the letter? Are there any letters that you think were not written at the end of the twentieth century?

If so, can you say why?

a) We were impressed by the very strong field of applicants that presented themselves. However, on this particular occa­sion, we regret that we will not be including your name on the short list.

b) Sam was such a very kind man, and a very dear friend. There are just so many occasions Tom and I can recall when he went out of his way to help us. Do you remember the Christ­mas in 1982, after Tom had had his accident and when we were snowed up? Sam came round and dug a path to our front door, and when he had finished, didn't even stop to have a drink because he wanted to help the Smiths down the hill.

c) Seven years, My Lord, have now passed, since I waited in your outward rooms, or was repulsed from your door; during which time I have been pushing on my work through difficulties

of which it is useless to complain, and have brought it, at last to the verge of publication, without one act of as­sistance, one word of encouragement, or one smile of fa­vour. Such treatment I did not expect, for I never had a Pa­tron before.

Is not a Patron, my Lord, one who looks with unconcern on a man struggling for life in the water, and, when he has reached ground, encumbers him with help? The notice which you have been pleased to take of my labours, had it been early, had been kind; but it has been delayed until I am indifferent, and cannot enjoy it; till I am solitary, and cannot impart it; till I am known, and do not want it.

d) I think it is better if I write to you about your report rather than coming to see you. It isn't entirely bad, but it isn't very good either.

You know how important I think it is that at your age you' enjoy what you are doing and that you get the most out of life. So when you go out and play football or enjoy yourself at parties I don't raise any objections. But you've just got to realise you won’t get any satisfaction from your life in the future if you don't decide now when it's more important to make an effort, and when you can just sit back and enjoy yourself. Which brings me to the report.