A friend who
lived in Australia (was told) one day by his neighbour living across the road
that he (would be away) in England for a few weeks. The man further explained
that his house (was being decorated) at the moment but he (was leaving) the country the
next day, as he (had not seen) his rich relative for a few years. He said he
hoped his neighbour (would look) after his house properly. The first week
passed without any incident. Soon the decorators packed up and (left).
But the next day the good friend (caught) sight of two fellows at his
neighbour's door (packing) rolled up carpets into the old van. "Hey", cried
the man, "What the hell are you (doing)? I (have been looking) after the house for a week
already an I (do not want) my friend (to get) angry when he (returns) home" The
two fellows explained to him that the owner of that very house (had ordered)
(to clean) his Persian carpets while he (was away). They managed to make him
(believe) that it (was) true. The friendly man (thought) that his own carpets
(needed) cleaning. He had always (been) a bachelor and everything in his house
(suffered) from his carelessness. So he (agreed) with the two fellows that
they (add) the expenses secretly to his neighbour's bill. The happy
carpet-cleaners (laid) all the carpets into their van and (drove)
cheerfully away. While they (were driving) they (made) fun of the man they had so
cleverly (deceived). There (is) no need to say the neither of the
neighbours had ever (seen) their carpets again.