E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Quarter.
To grant quarter. To spare the life of an enemy in your power. Dr. Tusler says:—“It originated from an agreement anciently made between the Dutch and the Spaniards, that the ransom of a soldier should be the quarter of his pay.” (French, donner and demander quartier.)
