“There was that little minx of a sister with her curls (he always called them carrot shavings), who was so conceited (girls always are!) and always trying to attract notice, in spite of Melchior’s incessant snubbings.  There was that clever brother, with his untidy hair and bent shoulders, who was just as bad the other way; who always ran out of the back door when visitors called, and was for ever moping and reading:  and this, in spite of Melchior’s hiding his books, and continually telling him that he was a disgrace to the family, a perfect bear, not fit to be seen, etc.—­all with the laudable desire of his improvement.  There was that little Hop-o’-my-Thumb, as lively as any of them, a young monkey, the worst of all; who was always in mischief, and consorting with the low boys in the village; though Melchior did not fail to tell him that he was not fit company for gentlemen’s sons, that he was certain to be cut when he went to school, and that he would probably end his days by being transported, if not hanged.  There was the second brother, who was Melchior’s chief companion, and against whom he had no particular quarrel.  And there was the little pale lame sister, whom he dearly loved; but whom, odd to say, he never tried to improve at all; his remedy for her failings was generally, ‘Let her do as she likes, will you?’ There were others who were all tiresome in their respective ways; and one after the other they climbed up.

“‘What are you doing, getting on to my bed!’ inquired the indignant brother, as soon as he could speak.

“‘Don’t you know the difference between a bed and a coach, godson?’ said Time, sharply.

“Melchior was about to retort, but on looking round, he saw that they were really in a large sort of coach with very wide windows.  ’I thought I was in bed,’ he muttered.  ’What can I have been dreaming of?’

“‘What, indeed!’ said the godfather.  ’But, be quick, and sit close, for you have all to get in; you are all brothers and sisters.’

“‘Must families be together?’ inquired Melchior, dolefully.

“‘Yes, at first,’ was the answer; ’they get separated in time.  In fact, everyone has to cease driving sooner or later.  I drop them on the road at different stages, according to my orders,’ and he showed a bundle of papers in his hands; ’but, as I favour you, I will tell you in confidence that I have to drop all your brothers and sisters before you.  There, you four oldest sit on this side, you five others there, and the little one must stand or be nursed.’

“‘Ugh!’ said Melchior, ’the coach would be well enough if one was alone; but what a squeeze with all these brats!  I say, go pretty quick, will you?’

“‘I will,’ said Time, ’if you wish it.  But, beware that you cannot change your mind.  If I go quicker for your sake, I shall never go slow again; if slower, I shall not again go quick; and I only favour you so far, because you are my godson.  Here, take the check-string; when you want me, pull it, and speak through the tube.  Now we’re off.’