about ten minutes
past eleven
asked the Padre . This was rather puzzling for a moment , but Miss Mapp soon thought of the explanation . `` Oh , just to make sure , '' she said , and Tilling applauded her ready irony . And then came the climax of sensationalism , when at about ten minutes past eleven the two cowards emerged into the High Street on their way to catch the 11.20 tram out to the links . The day threatened rain , and they both carried bags which contained a change of clothes . Just round the corner of the High Street was the group which had applauded Miss Mapp 's quickness , and the cowards were among the breakers . They glanced at each other , seeing that Miss Mapp was the most towering of the breakers , but it was too late to retreat , and they made the usual salutations .