Mr John

Excuse me.

Stranger

Yes.

Mr John

May I have your attention, please

Stranger

Yes. What’s the matter?

Mr John

I’m in an awkward(2) position. You may not believe me. My pocket has been picked. I’ve lost all my money and I can’t pay for the journey back home. Could you help me, please?

Stranger

I do believe you. Pickpockets are very active in this city. By the way, where’s your home?

Mr John

In Singapore.

Stranger

In Singapore! And this is Kuala Lumpur, almost 500 kilometres away. I can understand your plight now. Perhaps 1 can help you. How much money do you need?

Mr John

About thirty dollars. I can pledge my ring or my watch to you, if you can spare me the money.

Stranger

You don’t have to pledge anything. I’ll see how much I can spare. (He looks into his wallet).

Mr John

I’m genuinely(3) sorry to put you to so much inconvenience.

Stranger

Don’t worry about that, please. I might find myself in the same position some day.

Mr John

You’re indeed very considerate.

Stranger

And you’re very fortunate. I can spare you more that you’ve asked for. You can have fifty dollars. Here you are. (He gives the money to Mr John).

Mr John

But thirty dollars should be enough. I don’t need more than that.

Stranger

That doesn’t matter. Please keep the fifty dollars. You may need it on the way for incidental(4) expenses.

Mr John

Thank you very much. By the way, I must offer you an apology. in my desperation(5), I didn’t ask your name.

Stranger

I’m Rashid bin Ahmad.

Mr John

And I’m John. (They shake hands. Mr John continues) Your generosity(6), Mr Rashid, has touched(7) me deeply. I’ll never forget this sincere act of kindness. You’re a true ambassador of your country. Please let me have your address. I’ll return your money as soon as 1’m back home.

Mr Rashid

No, please don’t return it. I’ll look you up when I’m in Singapore sometime next month. And I too would appreciate(8) if you’d let me have your address.

Mr John Certainly. (The two give their addresses to each other).

Mr Rashid

You must excuse me now, Mr John. I have to be home in an hour’s time.

Mr John

Surely. I thank you again for your kindness and generosity. Do visit me when you’re in Singapore

Mr Rashid

I will, certainly. This is an encounter I can’t forget. Something must be done to get rid of the pickpockets in this City.

Mr John

May I repeat that I’m greatly indebted to you for your timely help.

Mr Rashid

It’s all right. (They shake hands and part).