E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Twisting the Lion’s Tail.
Seeing how far the “Britishers” will bear provocation. “To give the lion’s tail another twist” is to tax the British forbearance a little further. No doubt the kingdom is averse to war with civilised nations, and will put up with a deal rather than apply to the arbitration of arms. Even victory may be bought too dearly. Such provocation may provoke a growl, but there will the matter end.
