101 Conversations in Intermediate English

32. The attempted robbery

Laura and Peter lose themselves in the crowd at the square, close to the door of the antique, stamp, and coin shop, Knight and Sons. They pretend to be tourists, taking photos and admiring the historical fronts of the buildings in the square. Suddenly, when it gets close to the time, Peter approaches Detective Smith and whispers in her ear while pretending to take a selfie.

Peter: I think I see them. Can you see those three guys? They’re very covered up and I think I can see a ski mask in one of their pockets.

Laura: Are you talking about the one wearing a red bracelet?

Peter: Exactly. They are looking in the window of Knight and Sons. Warn Sergeant Brown.

Laura (over a walkie-talkie): Sergeant, can you hear me?

Sergeant Brown (over a walkie-talkie): I hear you.

Laura (over a walkie-talkie): We think we’ve identified them, get ready for action.

Peter: Look! They’re putting on their ski masks and are about to go in!

Laura: HANDS IN THE AIR!