Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Christcross-row \Christ"cross-row`\,
   The alphabet; -- formerly so called, either from the cross
   usually set before it, or from a superstitious custom,
   sometimes practiced, of writing it in the form of a cross, by
   way of a charm.

         From infant conning of the Christcross-row.
                                                  --Wordsworth.

Crossrow \Cross"row`\ (-r?`), n.
   1. The alphabet; -- called also {Christcross-row}.

            And from the crossrow plucks the letter G. -- Shak.

   2. A row that crosses others.