twenty minutes to five
`` They call the poor little wretch ` Gooseberry ' at the office , '' he said . `` I employ him to go on errands -- and I only wish my clerks who have nick-named him were as thoroughly to be depended on as he is . Gooseberry is one of the sharpest boys in London , Mr. Blake , in spite of his eyes . '' It was twenty minutes to five when we drew up before the bank in Lombard Street . Gooseberry looked longingly at his master , as he opened the cab door . `` Do you want to come in too ? '' asked Mr. Bruff kindly .