B, subs. (Harrow).—A standard in Gymnasium the next below the A (q.v.). See Appendix.
Bacca. See Action.
Bacchus, subs. (Eton).—A copy of verses. See quot.
1865. Etoniana, 27. On Shrove-Tuesday verses were written [c. 1561] in honour or dispraise of Bacchus—“because poets were considered the clients of Bacchus”—and those composed by the senior boys were fixed on the inside of the folding-doors of the hall, as was the old fashion in all schools and colleges. This custom was continued almost into modern days, and though the subject was changed, the copy of verses was still called “a BACCHUS.” When Pepys paid a visit to the school in 1665, he found the subject given out for that year was the one topic of absorbing interest—the Plague.
Back. To BACK UP, verb (Winchester).—To call out: e.g. “Why didn’t you BACK UP? I should have come.” [In College various times are BACKED-UP by Junior in Chambers, such as “Three quarters!” “Hour!” “Bells go single!” “Bells down!”]
Back Alley (The Leys: obsolete).—A passage dividing “Upper” and “Lower” Quadrangle: now done away with.
Backings-up, subs. (Winchester).—Half-burned fagot-ends. [Backing (prov. in Linc., Leices., and North country) = slack; small-coal; turf.]
Backs, subs. (Cambridge).—A favourite walk with undergraduates.
1891. Harry Fludyer at Cambridge, 23. I’m in training now for the Lent races, and have to be out for a walk in the BACKS before breakfast every morning.
Badger, subs. (Wellington).—A member of the Second XV. at football. [A “badge” is bestowed when permission is given to play in this team.]