Произношение буквами gold rush in 1848 gold was discovered at sutter's mill, about 100 miles east of san francisco, and the first great gold-rush began. when the news leaked out, farmers, trappers, lawyers, preachers, sailors, soldiers and school teachers rushed to california by whatever means they could. within a year 100,000 people, only 8,000 of whom were women, had reached the coast of california. more than half of them had travelled overland across the american continent. 'gold fever’ began to spread. settlements throughout the united states were deserted. homes, farms and stores were abandoned as everybody raced for california. many came by sea, and in july 1850 more than 500 ships were anchored in san francisco bay, many of which had been deserted by gold-hungry sailors. a few people became fabulously rich, but it was a risky business. law and order broke down. even if a miner 'struck it rich" there were always those who would try to take it away: gamblers, outlaws, thieves and saloon keepers. gold and silver were discovered in nevada a few years later, and 'gold fever' was an important part of the settlement of the western united states.

Belarus is a landlocked country in East Europe, which borders with Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Baltic countries. It is one of the most beautiful and interesting countries of this region. The biggest city and the capital of Belarus is Minsk. Other major cities include Brest, Gomel, Grodno, Vitebsk and Mogilev. The country is full of unique landscapes, historical monuments and outstanding architecture. One of the most interesting sights is situated in Brest and Grodno provinces. It’s called Belovezhskaya Pushcha or Bialowieza Forest. It’s an ancient woodland which straddles the border Belarus and Poland. The area it covers is more than 150 square kilometers. The forest includes laboratory facilities and a zoo, where such animals like bison, wild boar, and moose can be seen in their natural habitat. This natural sight is on the UNESCO World Heritage list nowadays. Another worthy place to visit in Belarus is the Mirsky Castle Complex. It is situated in Grodno province and is considered to be a cultural heritage. This Renaissance style castle was built in the 16th century and attracts a great number of visitors each year. Belarus is often described as castle land. Another beautiful castle is situated in Minsk province, in Nesvizh. It is known as the Architectural, Residential and Cultural Complex of the Radziwill Family at Nesvizh. It is a three-storey chateau which was built in the 16th century. In Vitebsk province people often visit the St. Sophia Cathedral and the Savior’s Church. Another lovely architectural ensemble is situated in Gomel. It is the Rumyantsev-Paskevich Residence which is the main historical monument of Gomel region. An image of this residence is featured on the Belarusian 20,000-ruble bill. The most interesting sights in Minsk include the National Museum of History and Culture, St. Peter and St. Paul Church, and the National Library of Belarus.

1. When I walked into the busy office, the secretary was talking on the phone with a customer, several clerks were busily working at their desks, and two managers were quietly discussing methods to improve customer service.

2. I was watching a mystery movie on TV when the electricity went out. Now I am never going to find out how the movie ends.

3. Sharon was in the room when John told me what happened, but she didn’t hear anything because she wasn't listening.

4. It’s strange that you called because I just thought about you.

5. The Titanic was crossing the Atlantic when it stroke an iceberg.

6. When I entered the bazaar, a couple of merchants were busily bargaining and trying to sell their goods to naive tourists who were hunting for souvenirs. Some young boys were leading their donkeys through the narrow streets on their way home. A couple of men were arguing over the price of a leather belt. I walked over to a man who was selling fruit and bought a banana.