A Policeman Pulls Over an Old Man Driving a Pickup Truck

Inside sat an elderly man, hands resting calmly on the steering wheel. His hair was silver, neatly combed, and his posture was straight despite his age. He wore a plaid shirt, buttoned all the way up, and his eyes followed Harris with quiet attentiveness.

“Good afternoon, sir,” Harris said, keeping his voice even and respectful. “Do you know why I pulled you over?”

The old man smiled faintly. “Well, officer,” he said, voice steady but soft, “I reckon it could be one of a few reasons. But if I had to guess, I might’ve drifted a bit back there.”

Harris nodded. “That’s right. I also clocked you a few miles over the speed limit.”

The man chuckled gently. “Wouldn’t surprise me. This old truck doesn’t feel like it’s going fast until it already is.”

—

### Papers and Politeness

Harris asked for the man’s license and registration. The driver reached slowly toward the glove compartment, pausing just long enough to make sure Harris was watching.

“Mind if I grab those now?” he asked.

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