walk one’s chalks —(dated sl.)
1. make off; escape:
- We cannot believe that Brother Nicholas walked his chalks with the funds of the brethren.
2. move off:
- I gave Master Barlow due warning … and one fine morning I walked my chalks to try my luck. I fell in next day with a gentleman’s servant’s place.
3. is used to rudely tell smb. to go away (and stop being annoying): .
- I have had enough of you. Walk your chalks!
walk the chalk —(also: walk the chalk line)
1. walk along a straight line as a proof of being sober:
- “See? I’m not drunk,” Chris said as he walked the chalk line. “Okay, you can stop now,” the cop replied, keeping a stern face.
2. act exactly as one is supposed to; behave with propriety:
- The owners of those dives knew they would have to close up shop and walk the chalk once the police took the matter in hand.