E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Alexis (St.).
Patron saint of hermits and beggars. The story goes that he lived on his father’s estate as a hermit till death, but was never recognised.
1
He is represented, in Christian art, with a pilgrim’s habit and staff. Sometimes he is drawn as if extended on a mat, with a letter in his hand, dying.
