Chiangmai
3 Answers
Benchong
Best answer!
The probable derivation of this phrase is an allusion to tradesmen who owned their own tools and took them with them in a bag or sack when they were dismissed from employment.
| 14 years ago. Rating: 4 | |
robertgrist
A sack was often used to carry belongings that may be needed during a days labor and not provided by the job boss. This may include gloves, your lunch, jacket or rain coat, some trade items perhaps and maybe a pint of whiskey, smoking tobacco kit, and so forth. Your sack would be secured in the bosses office or storage room. If the boss didn’t like your work or you got into a brawl the boss may just give you your sack and out the door you would go. No pay for that day. Or perhaps half a days wages.
Skilled craftsmen got better pay and brought their own tools in a box, often made for the tools. An employer would look over the box and tools and judge your skills by your tools and box before making an offer for a days labor or the job requiring skill. Skilled laborers usually kept their tools and kit with them on the job.
| 14 years ago. Rating: 3 | |
Chiangmai
