First off, is it a CC or a loan?
I can only speak for CCs, but in the past, when something like this happened, I called the CC company, explained what happened and asked politely if they would be gracious and remove it. They would always say, let me look at your record, and if I hadn't been late before (well not in a while), they'd do it. Then of course you have to politely remind them to update their entry with the CRA.
Can't say for other types of lenders, but if its a CC that's what I would do. Especially if it's your first late.