What do you say to a LOR writer that cancels on the last minute?

[CaptainWEMT]

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I'm currently in the process of applying for my composite letter. After sending a reminder to one of my letter writers who originally agreed to write me a letter, she said she was no longer able to write the letter that she had originally agreed to. Luckily, I was able to scramble and get an extra letter to replace her's, but my question is what do I say back to the person who cancelled at the last minute?

 

[Dr. Let 'er Buck]

You tell them that you understand something came up and appreciate their willingness to write a letter. No good will come of burning a bridge when you so easily replaced the letter.

 

[medDaisuki]

You dont have to reply...

 

[DrFortiusNatando]

Nothing at all. Just be glad she did not write a lukewarm or bad letter.
Sometimes, in these cases, the person has changed their opinion about the student, based on new information (even after an applicant may have left a position).
I do not know if that is what happened with you, or if she just got "too busy", but you did not want a letter from her at this point.
She may have done you a huge favor by telling you to get another letter.
For others earlier in the process, I always tell people to ask by saying "Do you feel that you can write me a supportive letter for "X"" and always listen to any clues, at the outset, or later, that the person gives you about writing or not writing a letter.

 

[CaptainWEMT]

Thank you for the feedback. I ultimately thanked her for her honesty let her know I was able to line up a back up letter at the last minute.

@gorowannabe she also said that she just did not have the amount of information necessary for the letter, and that she was rooting for me.

 

[ciestar]

I said nothing when my one letter writer bailed on me.