Chapter Ambition to Amina of A by Brewer's Phrase & Fable

Amethyst A species of rock-crystal supposed to prevent intoxication (Greek, a-methusta, the antidote of intoxication). Drinking-cups made of amethyst were supposed to be a charm against inebriety.

It was the most cherished of all precious stones by Roman matrons, from the superstition that it would preserve inviolate the affection of their husbands.

Amiable Numbers (See Amicable , etc.)

Amicable Numbers Numbers which are mutually equal to the sum of all their aliquot parts: as 220, 284. The aliquot parts of 220 are 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 20, 22 44, 55, 110, the sum of which is 284. Again, the aliquot parts of 284 are 1, 2, 4, 71, 142, the sum of which is 220.

Amicus curiae (Latin, a friend to the court). One in the court who informs the judge of some error he has detected, or makes some suggestion to assist the court.

Amicus Plato, sed magis amica Veritas (Plato I love, but I love Truth more) A noble dictum attributed to Aristotle, but certainly a very free translation of a phrase in the Nicomachean Ethics ("Where both are friends, it is right to prefer Truth")

Amiel (3 syl.) A form of the name of Eliam (friend of God). In Dryden's satire of Absalom and Achitophel it is meant for Sir Edward Seymour, Speaker of the House of Commons. (2 Sam. xxii. 34.)

"Who can Amiel's praise refuse?
Of ancient race by birth, but nobler yet
In his own worth, and without title great.
The Sanhedrim long time as chief he ruled,
Their reason guided and their passion cooled."
Dryden: Absalom and Achitophel, i. 99--903.

Amiens (3 syl.) The Peace of Amiens , March 27, 1802, a treaty signed by Joseph Bonaparte, the Marquis of Cornwallis, Azara, and Schimmelpenninck, to settle the disputed points between France, England, Spain, and Holland. It was dissolved in 1803.

Amina An orphan adopted by a miller, and beloved by Elvino, a rich farmer. The night before her espousals she is found in the bed of Count Rodolpho, and is renounced by her betrothed husband. The Count explains to the young farmer and his friends that Amina is innocent, and has wandered in her sleep. While he is still talking, the orphan is seen getting out of the window of the mill, and walking in her sleep along the edge of the roof under which the mill-wheel is rapidly revolving. She crosses a crazy bridge, and comes among the spectators. In a few minutes she awakes, flies to Elvino, and is claimed by him as his beloved and innocent bride. - Bellini's best opera, La Sonnambula.