ten minutes to three
But never fear . You tell the truth , and keep a brave , kind heart , and never listen to or say anything you would n't have your mother or sister hear , and you 'll never feel ashamed to come home , or we to see you . '' The mention of his mother made Tom feel rather choky , and he would have liked to hug his father well , if it had n't been for his recent stipulation that kissing should now cease between them , so he only squeezed his father 's hand , and looked up bravely , and said , `` I 'll try , father ! '' At ten minutes to three Tom was in the coffee-room in his stockings , and there was his father nursing a bright fire ; and a cup of coffee and a hard biscuit on the table . Just as he was swallowing the last mouthful , Boots looks in , and says , `` Tally-ho , sir ! '' And they hear the ring and rattle as it dashes up to the Peacock . `` Good-bye , father ; my love at home ! ''