E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Alls.
The five Alls. A public-house sign. It has five human figures, with a motto to each:—
1
(1) A king in his regalia .. motto J govern all.
(2) A bishop, in his pontificals ” I pray for all.
(3) A lawyer, in his gown .. ” I plead for all.
(4) A soldier in regimentals ” I fight for all.
(5) A labourer, with his tools ” I pay for all.
Several of these signs still exist.
2
Alls. Tap-droppings. The refuse of all sorts of spirits drained from the glasses, or spilt in drawing. The mixture is sold in gin-houses at a cheap rate.
