How to give bad news...

My credit card expired this month and I didn't inform my ISP (be) of the new expiry date. As a result the credit card bounced and they had to send me a mail.  Normally this is a stern warning about how I had better sort out my life or lose the service.  But the guys (or I suspect gals) at be had a better idea.

Slight problem.

We've just tried to collect the amount due to us, but the transaction couldn't be completed.

...

please ensure prompt payment as we really don't want to disconnect you. We know how much you'll miss your broadband.

Fingers crossed for next time.

Sheer genius.  How to get over a possibly embarassing message and still retain dignity and humour on both sides just by adding a couple of words before and after the heavy stuff.  Love it.

Bob