The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

MIND YOUR P'S AND Q'S

THE INFORMANT TOLD THIS STORY AS TO THE ORIGIN
OF THE EXPRESSION "MIND YOUR P'S AND Q'S." SHE SAID
THAT IN LONDON THERE IS AN ALE HOUSE WITH THAT SIGN
ABOVE THE DOOR, AND INSIDE WRITTEN ON THE WALLS,
AND LOW CEILING, THE BARTENDER KEEPS A RUNNING
TALLY OF HOW MUCH SOMEONE OWES. HENCE, THE
EXPRESSION MEANS TO WATCH THE TOTAL MONEY OWED
FOR YOUR PINTS AND QUARTS.

Data entry tech comment: I THOUGH THEY USED LITERS!

Where learned: HIGHLAND PARK ; ILLINOIS

Date learned: 03-20-1967