You had an appointment with your friend last Friday. Unfortunately, you did not keep the appointment because your mother fell ill at that time. Write a letter to your friend to:
1.apologize for not attending the appointment as planned,
2.explain why you could not meet him/her that day,
3.make suggestion for another appointment next time.
Dear ***,
称呼：写给关系亲密的个人
I am excessively sorry to say that I had failed to keep the appointment that we made last Friday.
Now, I am writing you this letter of apology to show my deep regret.
Please accept my sincere apology. I hope you will understand me and excuse me for my failure to turn up.
第一句是本段的中心句，直接道出道歉的原因。
(积累：I am excessively sorry to do …; fail to do …; make an appointment)
第二句展开道歉，真诚的表达自己的歉意。
(积累： letter of apology)
第三、四句表达自己希望对方接受歉意。
The reason for my absence was that my mother fell ill at that time.
I had no way out because I had to send her to hospital and look after her.
Therefore, it’s not in my power to meet you.
第一句是本段的中心句，综述写信人出现过失的原因。(积累：The reason for … was that…; fall ill)
第二句是本段中心句的展开，讲述当时的处境和情况。
第三句承接上一句，表述事实面前的不可抗力。进一步澄清出现过失的原因。
(积累：in one’s power)
Naturally, I want to suggest that we should make another appointment next time.
I shall be obliged if you will kindly write and tell me when and where you will be at convenience.
We may meet again and I hope to see you soon.
第一句提出下次见面的建议。
第二句是征询对方下次见面的具体地点和时间。
最后一句期待下次见面。
礼貌收尾
Yours sincerely,
Li Ming
信件结尾和署名