Chapter Olympia to Open Air Mission of O by Brewer's Phrase & Fable

O'nus Probandi The obligation of proof; as, “The onus probandi rests with the accuser.”

Onyx is Greek for a finger-nail; so called because the colour of an onyx resembles that of the finger-nail.

O'pal From the Greek ops (the eye). Considered unlucky for the same reason that peacocks' feathers in a house are said to be unlucky. A peacock's feather, being full of eyes, act as spies in a house, prying into one's privacy. Similarly, it is unlucky to introduce the eye-stone or opal into a house, because it will interfere with the sanctity of domestic privacy. (See Ceraunium) .

“Not an opal
Wrapped in a bay-leaf in my left fist,
To charm their eyes with.”
Ben Jonson: New Inn, i. 6.

Opal of Alphonso XII (of Spain) seemed to be fatal. The king, on his wedding day, presented an opal ring to his wife (Mercedes, daughter of the Duke of Montpensier), but her death occurred soon afterwards. Before the funeral the king gave the ring to his sister (Maria del Pilar), who died a few days afterwards. The king then presented the ring to his sister-in-law (the Princess Christina, youngest daughter of the Duke of Montpensier), who died within three months. Alphonso, astounded at these fatalities, resolved to wear the ring himself, but died also within a very short time. The Queen Regent then attached the ring to a gold chain, which she suspended on the neck of the Virgin of Almudena of Madrid. (See Fatal Gifts .)

Open Air Mission A mission founded in 1853. Its agents preach in the open air, especially at races, fairs, and on occasions when large numbers of people congregate.