51. Directions:

　　You have received an invitation to the birthday party of your friend, Tom. But you can’t attend it. Write a note to Tom to

　　1) thank him for the invitation,

　　2) give reasons why you can’t go, and

　　3) apologize and express your wishes.

　　You should write about 100 words neatly on ANSWER SHEET 2. Do not sign your own name. Use “Li Ming” instead. You do not need to write the address. (10 points)

 參考范文

　　Dear Tom,

　　Thank you very much for inviting me to your birthday party tomorrow and I have been longing for giving my sincere wishes to you on that special day. However, I am terribly sorry that I cannot be there because of a matter of some urgency. This afternoon I got a call from my parents telling me that my sister had been hospitalized. Both of my parents are busy at work, so I have to go home in a hurry to take care of her. I am sure you can understand this. I would like to say sorry again and wish you a happy birthday as well as a successful party.

　　Yours

　　Li Ming