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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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robbing Peter to pay Paul
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Phrase used for the diversion of funds from one good cause to another. It derives from medieval Christianity. St Peter and St Paul shared a feast day (June 29) and were two of the most popular patron saints – as is evidenced by London's two ancient churches, Westminster Abbey (dedicated to St Peter) and St Paul's Cathedral. This coincidence has led to a common belief, based on no evidence, that the phrase itself derives from London.
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