Paltry contribution from a friend (3)

I believe the answer is:

pal

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'friend' is the definition.
(pal can mean a friend)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for pal that I've seen before include "Buddy, chum" , "Bud" , "Mate, buddy" , "Close friend" , "Mate, informal friend" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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