... of the cab a short but sharp argument ensued with the operator; it seemed that "the clock" was out of order and not registering—had struck in conformance to the time-honoured custom of the midnight taximeter union. But the driver's habitual demand for two and one-half times the proper fare by distance proved in this instance quite fruitless. Staff calmly counted out the right amount, put it in the man's hand, listened with critical appreciation ... — The Bandbox • Louis Joseph Vance
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