subs. (old).—A pander: the legitimate trade of a tavern-keeper was frequently but a cloak for intrigue and bawdry; hence many equivocal allusions. Also VICTUALLING HOUSE = a house of accommodation.
1598. SHAKESPEARE, 2 Henry IV., ii. 4. Fal. … Marry, there’s another indictment upon thee, for suffering flesh to be eaten in thy house, contrary to the law…. Hostess. All VICTUALLERS do so. What’s a joint of mutton or two in a whole Lent?
1661. WEBSTER, A Cure for a Cuckold, iv. 1. This informer comes into Turnbull street to a VICTUALLING-HOUSE, and there falls in league with a wench.
