VICAR OF BRAY
\vˈɪkəɹ ɒv bɹˈe͡ɪ], \vˈɪkəɹ ɒv bɹˈeɪ], \v_ˈɪ_k_ə_ɹ ɒ_v b_ɹ_ˈeɪ]\
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A phrase sometimes used to denote those who are supposed to retain preferments by complying with all changes required of them, after the fashion of the Vicar of Bray, who stuck to his place during the reigns of the later Stuarts and of William III., or, as others say, during those of Henry VIII., Edward VI., Mary, and Elizabeth.
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Bray, Vicar of. Lived, according to tradition, from Henry VIII. to Elizabeth ; according to the song, from Charles II. to George I.; trimming to suit Court religion and retain his benefice.
By Henry Percy Smith
