a quarter past four
As it all became clear to his mind , he thumped his table partly in triumph , -- partly in despair . ` What 's the matter with you now ? ' said Mr. Curlydown . It was a quarter past four , and Curlydown had not completed his daily inspections . Had Bagwax been doing his proper share of work , Curlydown would have already washed his hands and changed his coat , and have been ready to start for the 4.30 train . As it was , he had an hour of labour before him , and would be unable to count the plums upon his wall , as was usual with him before dinner . ` It becomes more wonderful every day , ' said Bagwax solemnly , -- almost awfully .