There was a vigorous discussion about this text some years ago (on
MEDTEXTL, I think), which produced many theories. However, despite much
erudition and searching of databases, no-one could produce an ancient or
medieval source. Eventually the earliest use seemed to be in Voltaire.
An exact reference was given, but I'm afraid I didn't keep or cannot find
it.
--
Paul Chandler || Yarra Theological Union
[log in to unmask] || Melbourne College of Divinity
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