The hours during which English pubs are allowed to open are strictly controlled by the law. Times vary in different parts of the country, but are approximately from n a.m. to 2.30 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 10.30 or n p.m. on weekdays, and from 12 noon to 2 p.m, and from 7.00 to 10.30 p.m. on Sundays. It is normal to buy one's own drinks at the bar, and the barman is not tipped unless he brings drinks to the table. Each order is paid for separately, and not at the end of the evening.
A: What are you going to have?
В: A half of bitter, 1 please.
A: Are you sure you won't have a scotch?
В: Thanks very much, but I'm driving.
__________
1a bitter: a light draught beer.
***
– What's it to be?
– The same again, please.
– Won't you make it a pint this time?
– I'd better not, thank you all the same.
***
– What would you like to drink?
– Just a light ale for me, please.
– Won't you have a gin and tonic?
– That's very kind of you, but I don't think I will.
***
– What can I get you?
– I'd like a lager, please.
– Wouldn't you care for something a little stronger?
– No, I think I'd better stick to halves1, thanks.
__________
____1stick to halves: continue to drink half pints of beer