Take the first offer. Write the letter and give it on a disk to the signer. People are busy or they would probably rather not write you a recommendation

Addressing Point One-- that is THE most irritating thing in the world, and unbelievably common. I have written just about every letter of rec I've ever "received" for the same reason (my writing style is pretty identifiable, making writing several difficult). It is, however, a great opportunity for you to codify what you believe to be your strengths. Write the letter, and then call the second person back and explain to them you're on a deadline.

Congrats on the job, and good luck!

Why do you believe that previous employer has to give you a reference letter? there is no law that say they have to, some employers do not like giving reference letters or any reference at all

As far as #1 is concerned:

if it is so easy, write the dam* letter yourself (as you were asked to do) and get it signed........

you are asking someone to take time out of their busy day to do you a favor, the least you should do is make this as simple as possible and do as asked.

you know what you want said....... who better to write a letter for YOU then YOU?

as far as #2 is concerned:

re-read the part of my first answer about their busy day...........

i am NOT yelling, but you seem to be, and you seem to be very impatient, writing a reference letter is NOT something that is required of a former employer, and being pushy, uncooperative, and demanding will only serve to move your letter down the "to-do" list.........

1. Hey, YOU are the one who wants the letter - if you really want it, do what she's asking you to. Maybe SHE doesn't have enough spare time to write it, so is asking YOU to do some of the work. Why is she "supposed to" ?

2. He's probably busy AND/or forgot.