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start timing from the start.
if you press a button (or tap a tabletop) 4 times at 1 second intervals it will take 3 seconds.
if each tap sets of a ring (however long or short the ring is) it will still take you 3 seconds to do it.

So in effect you are timing from the start of the first ring to the start of the final ring - thus not allowing for reverberation!

I think I'm going to go and pour myself a nice glass of wine!

I already have!

timing from the start of the first ring to the start of the final ring = 3 seconds.
each ring can last a year or more if you want, with as much echo, phasing and reverb you can stand.
it still only took 3 seconds to initiate the 4 rings.
that is my thinking, at least.you are making me doubt myself now tho.

I see what you mean, Trevor - it depends on the exact phrasing of the question. Timing from the start of the first ring to the start of the final ring gives an equal number of rings and intervals, so the problem is soluble. I was thinking more of an electricla clock, where the ring is of precise (though unspecified) duration).

The exact wording of the question is ,
If a bellringer takes 3 seconds to ring four o'clock ,how long will it take him to ring midday.
I think I need a drink as well .

Thanks quizmad - in that case trevor is right and the answer is 11 seconds

Regarding length of a piece of string,it is twice the length from the middle to each end!!

A question from the latest Gunnislake quiz which has only just been published and has a long closing date so plenty of time for Quizmad to work this out for him/herself - don't you think?