two minutes to
twelve
In other words , I , a very mediocre scribbler , had effected seven times in a single month what the Powers of the Universe could not manage once , even on the smallest scale . * * * * * It was precisely three minutes to twelve -- I had just consulted my watch -- that the great idea surged into my brain . At four minutes to twelve I had been grumbling impotently at Providence . By two minutes to twelve I had determined upon a manly and independent course of action . Briefly it was this . Providence had failed to give satisfaction . I would , therefore , cease any connection with it , and start a rival business on my own account .