twenty minutes to twelve
`` I explained the facts . The poulterer stepped to the edge of the curb and apostrophised the universe generally . '' ` Look at that shop , ' he said . ` It 's twenty minutes to twelve , and there 's seven dozen geese hanging there that I 'm willing to give away , and this fool asks me if I want to buy another . ' `` I perceived then that my notion had been a foolish one , and I followed the policeman 's advice , and went away quietly , taking the bird with me . `` Then said I to myself , ` I will give it away . I will select some poor deserving person , and make him a present of the damned thing . '