Dear Ted,

I'm writing to you informally as I need to ask a favour of you. I must say that you have been a most valued member of the staff here and have impressed me with your hard work. But above all I am so very pleased with the way in which you welcomed Miss Gonzales with open arms.

The thing is this: I am in need of a new member of the teaching staff. Since squiffy has gone AWOL we are somewhat short. Would you consider taking his place for a while? You will naturally receive absolutely no extra financial renumeration but you will have the full weight of my authority behind you-do you think you would like that? I'll give you the key to my cane cupboard.

Please take your time in considering this offer.

Yours etc,

EdMaster.