E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Wild-goose Chase.
A hunt after a mare’s nest. This chase has two defects: First, it is very hard to catch the goose; and, secondly, it is of very little worth when it is caught.
1
To lead one a wild-goose chase. To beguile one with false hopes, or put one on the pursuit of something not practicable, or at any rate not worth the chase.
