No matter where you are, humans are constantly measuring and checking time. Some of us are good at it—planning and doing things ahead of time,____others are always trying to beat the clock and do things at the eleventh hour.

    Tardiness (拖拉) can be serious. If you____(be) one minute late for work, would you resign? It may sound extreme, but that is exactly ____occurred in the UK upper chamber of parliament, the House of Lords, in January 2018. International development minister Lord Bates arrived one minute late, and, as a result, was unable to answer a ____(schedule) question. Instead of trying ____ (make) up for lost time, as many might do, he resigned on ____spot. He apologized for his discourtesy (无礼) and stated that he was ashamed. His resignation, though.____ (reject) by the UK prime minister.

    So, how late is too late? Many cultures take punctuality very seriously. In contrast, others seem to view tardiness____ just the normal way of things. What is considered acceptable is based on culture. That is, if you don't mind waiting, it might be best to attend your____ (appoint) in good time. And if the worst comes to the worst, remember the old English proverb.____ (well) late than never.”