Dave: So how did you meet Linda?

Phil: I met her through a computer bulletin board (电脑告示板).

Dave: Oh really? What bulletin board?

Phil: It was one I used down at the local coffee house called the San Francisco Net. It's been around since about 1991.

Dave: I've heard about that., but I've never tried it.

Phil: You ought to. One dollar buys you 15 minutes of computer time. A "Chat session" links you with cappuccino sippers (喝加牛奶的咖啡的人)in other cafes and at home computers on the network.

Dave: I have no desire to talk on a network with a bunch of strangers.

Phil: That's the whole point. All your inhibitions (顾虑;约束)disappear because you can't see the other person. This network allows you to talk to people whom you normally wouldn't talk to.

Dave: I just want a private conversation with one other person.

Phil: You can do that. A private session lets two talk alone. This techno-chat program lets you talk with about anything with everyone, without prejudice because you can't see them.

Dave: Well, maybe I'll tag along (跟着某人学样;紧跟在某人的后面)and watch how you talk.

Phil: That's fine with me. but we'll have to get there early, because after 8 p. m. there's always a long waiting line.

Dave: It's that popular?

Phil: Welcome to the 90s!

Dave: Okay, okay. We're there tonight. So what does it cost?

Phil: One dollar buys 15 minutes of computer time. This talk ain't cheap.

Dave: I don't know. I'll feel funny talking through a computer.

Phil: Remember, that's how I met Linda. I guarantee you can talk to girls who would never talk to you if they saw your face.

Dave: What's that supposed to mean?

Phil: Look in the mirror, man. (老兄，照照镜子去吧)