tardy

Tardy is applied to that which is behind the proper or desired time, especially in doing a work or arriving at a place.

Tardy employees approached their work joyously, not stealthily, as is the normal custom of such miscreants.

Tardy I might be, but it was hardly conceivable that my presence aboard the rocket could have averted the catastrophe.

Tardy restitution given to a long-suffering people; late righting of an ancient wrong!