Fall 2005: ENC 5236: Advanced Business Writing for Accounting
Response to an Inquiry Letter – Assignment Details
Due
Sept 20
(Also submit electronic copy by 6 pm Tuesday.)
Write the letter described in Exercise 9-9 (Page 163) of your text. For your convenience, the complete exercise appears below:
Your client, Lewis Dabbs, has written a letter to you. He is concerned because he has just received an offer to purchase his business for $1,000,000 more than the net carrying value of the assets as reported in the most recent financial statements, audited by you. He is not interested in selling the business, but he is now convinced that you have certified financial statements that do not properly reflect the value of his company.
Write a letter to your client explaining why the figures in the balance sheet should not be changed. You may assume your client is an astute businessman with no background in accounting. Use good format, effective organization, and appropriate style. Invent any information you feel is necessary to make your letter complete.
Your letter will probably total 1-2 pages in a standard, single-spaced format. You may “invent” a company letterhead and title for yourself if you choose.
As always, consider purpose, audience, voice, and your knowledge of
rhetorical appeals to help you develop a persuasive, subtle, and informative
approach. You should use standard grammar, express your ideas concisely, and
write, as much as feasible, in an active voice. Also, remember to address the
points listed on page 152 of your text under “Responding to Correspondence.”