Being a good steward

I just got back from Germany and took one of those private taxis which my colleague very kindly helped to book because it was cheaper. Recently I often just hail a London cab because I respect the drivers who have to work very hard to get their licence and feel like I should help them out a little in these tough times.

Then again I should be a good steward too of the resources entrusted to me. Hmmm. And these drivers are also suffering I guess.

Anyway, when we arrived I asked for a receipt. Usually these are handwritten. He handed me a blank receipt and said something to the effect that I could fill in the amount I wanted. I understood what he meant and told him no, he should fill out the amount agreed on, which was £50. He filled it out, handed it to me and I gave him the fare, plus a small tip because it had been quite a pleasant ride and he was very polite and helpful.

When he took the money and saw how much it was, he offered to write me a new receipt which I refused. He asked if I was sure and I said yes. 

I thought about it afterwards and it came to me that I could have added that while I could claim the taxi fare, the tip was from me. It wouldn't mean anything if I just included it in the claim, plus it would also be wrong. I would not have acted like a good steward if I did that.