E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Fair.
(Latin feriœ, holidays.)
1
A day after the fair. Too late for the fun. “Sero sapiunt Phryges.” The Phrygians were noted for their obstinacy; hence, Phryx verberatus melior. They were thrice conquered: by Hercules, the Greeks, and the Latins, and were wise “after the events.”
