Verb (old).—To ‘hirple’; especially applied to a person with one leg
shorter than the other, or, ‘with an uneven keel.’
Do tell! intj. (American).—A useful interjection, for listeners who
feel that some remark is expected; equivalent to the English Really?
and Indeed? A similar phrase in the South is the old English, You don’t
say so? which a Yankee will vary by, I want to know! Do tell is also
used with inexperienced Munchausens who by its means may often be lured
to repeat themselves.
1824. R. B. Peake, Americans Abroad, Act I., Sc. ii. Mrs. L. But
when they order nothing at all— Dou: What then, du pray tell?
1854. N. and Q., 1 S., x., p. 84, R. Does Jeremiur behave well now?
S. No, he’s very ugly. He tried to burn the barn. R. do tell!
1871. De Vere, Americanisms, p. 598 s.v.
Dots, subs. (American journalist).—1. Items of news.