twelve o'clock on the first of April
This part of his duty Mr. Jobbles performed with a mildness of manner that was beyond all praise . A mother training her first-born to say ` papa , ' could not do so with a softer voice , or more affectionate demeanour . ` The planet Jupiter , ' said he to Mr. Precis ; ` I have no doubt you know accurately the computed distance of that planet from the sun , and also that of our own planet . Could you tell me now , how would you calculate the distance in inches , say from London Bridge to the nearest portion of Jupiter 's disc , at twelve o'clock on the first of April ? ' Mr. Jobbles , as he put his little question , smiled the sweetest of smiles , and spoke in a tone conciliating and gentle , as though he were asking Mr. Precis to dine with him and take part of a bottle of claret at half-past six . But , nevertheless , Mr. Precis looked very blank . ` I am not asking the distance , you know , ' said Mr. Jobbles , smiling sweeter than ever ; ` I am only asking how you would compute it . '