16 September,2012
Dear Mathew,
It's a great pleasure being asked to attend your dinner party in honor of Professor Harrison.The news of his winning the Lebon Prize came as no surprise to me,for he had accomplished such a great success over the past decades in his field.In all fairness,he should be presented with this award.
Unfortunately,my boss has just arranged a meeting with a major client,which he called and asked me to go to Paris on 22 September - the very day of the party.I can't tell you how sorry I am about missing your party.Please apologize to Professor Harrison for me and extend my congratulations to him.
Thanks.
Mark