A Workman’s Wages

Using the tired cliche doesn't always work.

When Steve Denning was pulled over for a traffic violation for the third time in a week, he was less than cordial with the officer who stopped him.

“What’d I do now?” Denning asked.

“Sir, you were clocked going 54 in a 25 mile an hour zone. Do you realize that? May I see your license and registration, please?”

“Here,” said Denning, handing the officer his information. “What’s the big deal? There was no one else around.”

“What’s the big deal? Seriously? The speed limit in this neighborhood is there for a reason, and as it happens, plenty of kids live…”

“Spare me your boring lecture, Officer Moore. Just give me a ticket or citation as you people call it and let me be on my way. I don’t have time for your speeches or games.”

“As you wish,” the patrolman said, walking back to his car and entering information into his computer. The computer printed out Denning’s citation and Moore returned to see the violator.

“Seems you’ve been a busy man, Mr. Denning. Here’s your license, registration, and the citation for endangering children and going more than 15 miles an hour over the posted limit. How I wish I could’ve added more for your sarcasm, but I’m only following the law here. Had it been my law, I would’ve tripled your fine and thought nothing of it.”

“’Zat the best you can do? You know I could report you for your obnoxious answer. Endangering children! What kind of law is that? I swear you guys just make things like that up. Some public servant you are. Don’t ever forget that I pay your salary with my hard-earned tax money,” said Denning.

“True enough, Mr. Denning, and I thank you,” Officer Moore said, pulling out a single dollar bill from his pocket and placing it on the dashboard. “Now you don’t owe me anything until next year. Have a pleasant day.”

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