subs. (military).1. In pl. = routine duty at the stables.
1885. Morning Post, 5 Feb. They seem always at STABLES, on parade, or out doing field-firing.
2. (racing).The horses in a racing establishment.
1887. Referee, 24 April. They can insure a straight run for their money in connection with this STABLE.
TO SHUT THE STABLE DOOR WHEN THE STEED IS STOLEN, verb. phr. (old).To set a guard after a mischief is done.
1509. BARCLAY, Ship of Fools (1874), i. 76. WHEN THE STEDE IS STOLYN, TO SHYT THE STABLE DORE.