Octogenarian Thwack

In the vicinity of the London Stock Exchange, prowled a pickpocket. Soon he espied an old gentleman, walking solo. "Easy money," he grinned and sidled up behind. Then, drawing up abreast, his nimble fingers felt for the oldster's watch. Instanter a bony fist hit him a resounding thwack on the jaw and he went reeling into the roadway.

The old gentleman was Sir Walter Runciman, father of onetime Cabinet Minister Walter Runciman.