John Bartlett (18201905). Familiar Quotations, 10th ed. 1919. |
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NUMBER: | 10415 |
AUTHOR: | Appendix |
QUOTATION: | Before you could say Jack Robinson. |
ATTRIBUTION: | This current phrase is said to be derived from a humorous song by Hudson, a tobacconist in Shoe Lane, London. He was a professional songwriter and vocalist, who used to be engaged to sing at supper-rooms and theatrical houses.
A warke it ys as easie to be done As tys to saye Jacke! robys on. |
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