My neighbour was driving home. A rather disreputable figure was beside the road holding out his thumb. It was raining and cold and the neighbour, who never picks up hitchhikers, for once stopped.

The man was extremely greatful and for the next mile did not stop offering his thanks.

The flashing blue light and the siren stopped the conversation and the neighbour was pulled for speeding. Both the driver and the hitchhiker were ordered out of the car. The PC made notes in his notebook and issued a ticked from his ticket pad.

Some ten miles further the hitchhiker reached his destination,

as he left the car he turned to the neighbour.

“I know I look pretty dreadful, but I have just come out of prison.” He said.

“You have been very kind giving me a ride and I should like to show my thanks.’

He handed the neighbour two books, the policeman’s notebook and ticket pad.