Placing a refusal in the first sentence of a message can be justified if the message is the second response to a repeated request.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the message is the second response to a repeated request, it may be appropriate to begin with a refusal in order to be clear and direct about the decision. However, if this is the first response to a request, it is generally better to begin with a neutral or positive opening before addressing any potential refusal.

Placing a Refusal in the First Sentence of a Message