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 aerial somersaults. Thereafter, the three bodies were consecrated to intricate forms of movement, to which the gymnasts had so adjusted their capabilities that they invested the most hazardous evolutions with an appearance of simplicity. Sometimes all three appeared to soar in the air together; sometimes two lay on their backs, legs in air, like Japanese jugglers, while the third, apparently in a state of catalepsy, was kicked back and forth; sometimes they rose like a tower, the higher men's feet on the lower men's shoulders, only to make this pose the basis of a furious and complicated operation. Their finesse, their electric energy, their defiance of the laws of gravity, all won the ready eye and enthusiasm of Paul. He had, to be sure, witnessed the exploits of acrobats before, but never before such paragons under such intimate conditions. It was, he reflected, like hearing Kreisler play in one's bedchamber before breakfast.

In conclusion, the athletes formed a huge human hoop which rolled off the mat and down the length of the hall.

Supper's ready, Mrs. Hugo called out.

All right, mother.

You'll stay, Mr. Moody?

I. ..

Of course, you'll stay, O'Grady shouted. What do you think I brought you here for?

Course he'll stay, echoed Hugo and Robin. The three took turns at dousing their faces and arms