subs. (old).—In pl. = folly (B. E.), hence, as in proverb, ‘To go to Battersea to be cut for the SIMPLES’ = to take means to cure of foolishness (Battersea was famous for its herb gardens). Also SIMPLETON (SIMKIN or SIMPLE SIMON) = a credulous person (B. E. and GROSE): ‘SIMPLE SIMON Suck-egg Sold his wife for an addled duck-egg’ (RAY).
c. 1710. SWIFT, Polite Conversation, i. Indeed, Mr. Neverout, you should be CUT FOR THE SIMPLES this morning.
1834. SOUTHEY, The Doctor, cxxxvi. What evils might be averted … in the Lords and Commons by clearing away bile … and occasionally by CUTTING FOR THE SIMPLES.
1876. C. HINDLEY, ed. The Life and Adventures of a Cheap Jack, 7. Many more are CUT FOR THE ‘SIMPLES.’
