Conversations – successes and failures

Last night I was at a party. I had gathered up a drink and was quietly standing in a corner watching three people in conversation. Actually only two were talking; poor old Jim was wedged between Debbie and Barbara and was making some effort to communicate with them. Jim was a good friend of mine – a man of few words but very knowledgeable, witty and interesting to talk to. Barbara and Debbie were also friends – both gregarious and outspoken. I craned my neck forwards and overheard the following conversation – Barbara

We’re so pleased with Michael. He has just done so well this year. He was doing five final year subjects and he got straight ‘A’s’ in them all. He’s been accepted to do medicine – just think, a doctor in the family!

Jim

Has he… ?

Debbie

Yes Judy has done so well this year too – she’s in Architecture at the University, you know, and the Professor of Design said that her thesis was the best he had seen in all his years teaching. We’re hoping she’ll get a University Medal.

Jim

Has she… ?

Barbara

Michael’s done so well that we’ve promised him a car to make it easier for him to get to College the bus service from our area is so irregular but we didn’t want him to move into the University Hall – we would miss him so much if he wasn’t around.

Debbie

Judy won’t be around much either for the next few months. We’ve paid for a trip to Italy – for her to look at Italian architecture and to really have a good rest before she starts work.

Jim

Where in Italy… ?

Barbara

Michael went to Italy with the school this year during summer. He had a marvellous time …