E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Pegging Away (Keep).
Keep on attacking, and you will assuredly prevail. “But screw your courage to the sticking-place, and we’ll not fail” (Macbeth). Patience and perseverance will overcome mountains. It was President Lincoln who gave this advice to the Federals in the American civil war.
