Song - Subtlety

[R.B.] Whilst little Paul, convalescing, was staying Close indoors, and his boisterous classmates paying Him visits, with fresh school-notes and surprises,— With nettling pride they sprung the word "Athletic," With much advice and urgings sympathetic Anent "Athletic exercises." Wise as Lad might look, quoth Paul: "I've pondered o'er that 'Athletic,' but I mean to take, before that, Downstairic and outdooric exercises."