Abstract: Apparatus and methods of delivering electronic messages, such as e-mail, which provide e-mail users with additional control over the delivery process. A sending delay timer is incorporated into e-mail products, such as e-mail client and server software. Instead of trying to catch a message after it has been sent, the present invention controls the time an outgoing message is to leave the sending e-mail client and/or server, thereby allowing the message to be retrieved for modification or deletion without relying on ineffective recall features of conventional products. A single timer may be implemented, in which case all messages would be subjected to the same delay. Alternatively, multiple timers can also be implemented, wherein the timers can be individually set to delay messages meeting certain criteria, such as the intended recipient.