five minutes to
nine
I have some directions to give both _ employees _ and children . '' Grace ran and opened the schoolroom door at the sound of her father 's approaching footsteps . `` See , papa , '' she said , `` we are all here , waiting for you to come , and tell us what lessons to learn . '' `` Yes , you are good , punctual children , '' he replied , glancing at the pretty little clock on the mantel ; `` for it still wants five minutes to nine . '' `` Papa , I know what lessons to learn , of course , '' remarked Lulu ; `` but the others are waiting for you to tell them . '' `` Yes . I shall examine Max first , '' the captain said , seating himself at his writing-table .