Two minutes to ten
Then he tripped out and went clattering down-stairs , whistling . We did not look at the things ; we could n't take any interest in anything but the clock . We sat staring at it in silence , listening to the ticking , and every time the minute-hand jumped we nodded recognition -- one minute fewer to cover in the race for life or for death . Finally Seppi drew a deep breath and said : `` Two minutes to ten . Seven minutes more and he will pass the death-point . Theodor , he is going to be saved ! He 's going to -- '' `` Hush !