As soon as the police officer showed up, Tad put his fists away and began immediately to back away from Jimmy. He rubbed his side as he noticed for the first time the crowd that had gathered around them, which was dispersing. He was probably going to have a bruise here under his ribs, but that was nothing compared to the embarrassment of having a crowd of people hear him squeal like he had, or seeing him in such a state.
Derby's rushed plea to the police officer spurred Tad into action, however. He stepped forward before the officer could reply, and spoke to him in a hearty voice that displayed far more confidence than he currently felt.
"Hello, Officer!" he said. "Did you receive my father's contribution this month?"
Luckily for Tad, Mr. Spencer was not a law-abiding citizen, and paid handsomely for the privilege.