牛津英语模块3 unit1课文.doc

FogFog warningWhen Polly left home that morning, the city was already covered in a grey mist. At lunch, the radio forecast that the mist would become a thick fog in the afternoon. At four oclock, Polly left work and stepped out into the fog. She wondered if the buses would still be running.No buses to King StreetOnce out in the street, she walked quickly towards her usual bus stop. How far are you going? the bus conductor asked her before he took her fare.King Street, said Polly.Sorry, Miss, replied the man, the truth is that it is too foggy for the bus to run that far. Take the Underground to the Green Park. The weather might be better there and you might be able to get a taxi.A tall manAs Polly observed the passengers on the train, she had a feeling that she was being watched by a tall man in a dark overcoat. At last the train arrived at Green Park station. While the rest of the passengers were getting out, she glanced at the faces around her. The man was nowhere to be seen.FootstepsWhen Polly got to the station entrance, it was empty. Outside, wherever she looked the fog lay like a thick, grey cloud. There was no one in sight. Polly set off towards Park Street. As she walked along the narrow street, she heard the sound of footsteps approaching, but by the time she reached the corner of the street, the footsteps were gone. Suddenly Polly felt a rough hand brushed her cheek, and she heard a mans voice in her ear saying Sorry. The man moved away. She could feel her heart beating with fear.The helpful strangerThen she heard the sound againsoft footsteps behind her. A minute before, she had wished for someone to come along. Now she wanted to run to run, but fear held her still. The footsteps seemed close now. Then a mans voice came out of the darkness. Is anybody there?Polly hesitated. At last she answered, Hello, I think Im lost.A few seconds later, a hand reached out and grasped her arm. Polly found herself staring up at the face of an old man with a beard.Maybe I can help you. Which road do you want? he asked.I live at king street, Polly replied.Just take my hand, said the man. Come with me, youll be all right. He took Pollys hand. Watch out for step here.In his other hand the man carried a stick. Polly heard it hit the step. I can remember some terrible fogs, but you sound young. How old are you?Just twenty, answered Polly.Ah, twenty! A nice age to be. I was young once. Now were at the crossroads. Turn left here.Im quite lost now. Are you sure you know the way?Polly was beginning to feel frightened again. Of course. You really shouldnt feel anxious. He held her hand more firmly.The grateful helperHere we are. King Street. He stopped.Thank you so much for coming to my aid, said Polly in relief. Would you like to come in and rest for a while?Its very nice of you, said the man, but Ill be off. There must be more people lost today, and Id like to help them. You see, a fog this bad is rare. It gives me the chance to pay back the help that people give me when its sunny. A blind person like me cant get across the road without help, except in a fog like this.