ten minutes to three
Well , partly because he wanted so to go . If he 'll only turn out a brave , helpful , truth-telling Englishman , and a gentleman , and a Christian , that 's all I want , '' thought the Squire ; and upon this view of the case framed his last words of advice to Tom , which were well enough suited to his purpose . For they were Tom 's first thoughts as he tumbled out of bed at the summons of Boots , and proceeded rapidly to wash and dress himself . At ten minutes to three he was down in the coffee-room in his stockings , carrying his hat-box , coat , and comforter in his hand ; and there he found his father nursing a bright fire and a cup of hot coffee and a hard biscuit on the table . `` Now then , Tom , give us your things here , and drink this ; there 's nothing like starting warm , old fellow . '' Tom addressed himself to the coffee , and prattled away while he worked himself into his shoes and his great-coat , well warmed through ; a Petersham coat with velvet collar , made tight , after the abominable fashion of those days . And just as he is swallowing his last mouthful , winding his comforter round his throat , and tucking the ends into the breast of his coat , the horn sounds , Boots looks in and says , `` Tally-ho , sir ; '' and they hear the ring and the rattle of the four fast trotters and the town-made drag , as it dashes up to the Peacock .