E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
By-and-by
now means a little time hence, but when the Bible was translated it meant instantly. “When persecution ariseth … by-and-by he is offended” (Matt. xiii. 21); rendered in Mark iv. 17 by the word “immediately.” Our presently means in a little time hence, but in French présentement means now, directly. Thus in France we see, These apartments to be let presently, meaning now—a phrase which would in English signify by-and-by.
