ten minutes to three
Greek particles are prepositions and conjunctions -- hence nice or difficult points of Greek grammar . THE TALLY-HO . For they were Tom 's first thoughts as he tumbled out of bed at the summons of Boots , and proceeded rapidly to wash and dress himself . At ten minutes to three he was down in the coffee-room in his stockings , carrying his hat-box , coat , and comforter in his hand , and there he found his father nursing a bright fire , and a cup of hot coffee and a hard biscuit -LSB- 12 -RSB- on the table . -LSB- 12 -RSB- #Hard biscuit # : cracker . `` Now then , Tom , give us your things here , and drink this ; there 's nothing like starting warm , old fellow . '' Tom addressed himself to the coffee , and prattled away while he worked himself into his shoes and his great-coat , well warmed through , -- a Petersham coat with velvet collar , made tight after the abominable fashion of those days .