Cambridge.
_St. Christopher_ (Vol. v., p. 265.).--I know not whether Mr. Drake's
explanation (referred to by E. A. H. L.) be the same as that given in
_Sacred and Legendary Art_, but the latter seems sufficiently
satisfactory.
"It was believed that in consequence of his prayer, those who
beheld the figure of St. Christopher were exempt during that day
from all perils of earthquake, fire, and flood. The mere sight of
his image, that type of strength, was deemed sufficient to inspire
with courage those who had to struggle with the evils and
casualties of life, and to reinvigorate those who were exhausted
by the labours of husbandry.... Hence it became a custom to place
his image in conspicuous places, to paint it of colossal size on
the walls of churches and houses, where it is sometimes seen
occupying the whole height of the building, and is visible from a
great distance, being considered as a good omen for all those who
look upon it. A mountain in Granada, which is first seen by ships
arriving from the African coast, is called San Cristobal, in
allusion to this poetical superstition."--_S. and L. Art_, p. 262.