【明報專訊】The Smarties are in a masquerade (蒙面派對). Dr Panda didn't join the party so Eason takes the chance to imitate him and acts very rudely.

“ Eason: Hello everybody! I'm Dr Panda! Bill, you look especially short today. ”

“ Bill: Did Dr Panda just say that?! ”

“ Pat: He never insults us and does not have a long tail. You aren't Dr Panda! ”

“ Eason: Of course I am! ”

“ Pat: Dr Panda can do anything. I won't believe you unless you can swing like him on the lamp. ”

“ Eason: Just a piece of cake! Believe me now? ”

■Culture tips

The Carnival of Venice

The Carnival of Venice in Italy is one of the world's biggest festivals held annually which contains a series of events lasting about two months (27 Jan—13 February).

Its history can be traced back to the 11th century. The origin of the celebration is linked to the successful resistance against foreign invaders.

Throughout the Venetian history, it had been suppressed by foreign powers from the imperial court. After many twists and turns, it was revived in the 20th century with the attempt to restore Italians' cultural identity.

Wearing masks is elemental in both the carnival and Venetian culture. It is believed to have been a way to hide one's social status when people from different social classes met each other. Now it is also a form of art.

A competition is held to choose the best masks and numerous prizes are presented each year.

■English highway﹕unless

Unless is used when you want to express a condition to be met.

e.g. You cannot get the prize unless you achieve a better result in this exam.

■Glossary

insult (v) 侮辱

invader (n) 侵略者

twists and turns (n phr) 曲折

condition (n) 條件

[Smarties' Power English 第208期]