My Dad said 'Keep your powder dry' as I was leaving the house one day...I thought he was quoting 'elbow' at me! as I'd only heard the phrase in this song, till he explained:
'Be prepared'
Advice attributed to Oliver Cromwell (see quot. 1834), combining spiritual exhortation with the practical measure of making sure that one's gunpowder is kept serviceable.
"Put your trust in God, my boys, and keep your powder dry.
[1834 Colonel Blacker Oliver's Advice in E. Hayes Ballads of Ireland (1856) I. 192]"
My Dad said 'Keep your powder dry' as I was leaving the house one day...I thought he was quoting 'elbow' at me! as I'd only heard the phrase in this song, till he explained:
'Be prepared'
Advice attributed to Oliver Cromwell (see quot. 1834), combining spiritual exhortation with the practical measure of making sure that one's gunpowder is kept serviceable.
"Put your trust in God, my boys, and keep your powder dry. [1834 Colonel Blacker Oliver's Advice in E. Hayes Ballads of Ireland (1856) I. 192]"