Published: Pioneer, 2 January 1888; Pioneer Mail, 4 January 1888; The Week's News, 7 January, 1888.

Attribution: In Scrapbook 4 (28/4, p. 46).

Text: Pioneer.

Note: Reprinted in Harbord, iv, 1947–52.

Time, Old Time, is not really half so awe-striking as artists and writer- folk try to make out. In private life, and when he pays an unofficial visit to anyone, as he did to me last night, he is a well preserved old Parsee gentleman, only distinguishable from the common herd by the length of the lock of hair on his forehead. “You see,” said Time, as he took off his high lacquered hat, “I have to wear it long for people to catch hold of when they feel inclined. You've heard of taking Time by the forelock? Well, there's the whole sub chiz. I can't say that it's much used, in this country at any rate. and it's a great nuisance in the hot weather, but I must keep it up in case of contingencies.” “Do you smoke?” I asked politely. “A little,” said Time with a glance that froze me to the marrow. “I've used up a good many Empires that way, as you may have heard. I don't eat up cities: that's a popular delusion. I burn ‘em – put ‘em in my pipe and smoke ‘em.” “And what brand are you smoking now, Sir?” “Oh don't be afraid, It's Russian – very strong and a good deal of it, but I shall get through it in time. I've called to ask your advice in a sort of way.” This was immensely flattering, and I said as much. “I can't altogether keep abreast of myself, and I've been so hard-pushed on the Continent, making arrangements for some fire-works, that I have rather lost touch of this country. Would you mind telling your servants to bring in my portmanteau? I've got some things in it for the men about here, and I want to ask you if they'll suit. You've heard of Time's Gifts and Time's Revenges of course. I've left the Revenges at the Station, but the Gifts are lighter and came in the compartment with me.”