To see one’s hoof in (a thing), verb. phr. (common).—To detect personal influence or interference in a matter.
1863. Thackeray, Roundabout Papers, ‘On Screens in Dining Rooms’ (1887, p. 58). I am informed by the same New York correspondent that … I once said to a literary gentleman, who was possibly pointing to an anonymous article as his writing, ‘Ah! I thought I recognised your hoof in it.’
Hoof-padder, subs. (common).—A pedestrian.
Hoofy, adj. (common).—Splay (or large).
Hook, subs. (thieves’).—1. A finger. (Cf., Cunt-hooks). For synonyms, see Fork. In plural = the hands. Also, Hooks and Feelers.
d. 1842. Maginn, Vidocq Versified. To his clies my hooks I throw in.
1877. Five Years’ Penal Servitude, ch. iv., p. 259. I one day asked a man … if the hard work of prison did not spoil his hands for delicate manipulations. ‘Oh, bless you, no!’ he replied; ‘… In a week or two a man can bring his hooks and feelers into full working trim again and no mistake.’
2. (thieves’).—A thief. Specifically, a pickpocket; a hooker (q.v.). For synonyms, see Thieves.
1562. Jacke Juggler (Dodsley, Old Plays, 4th ed., 1875, ii., 139). So, yonder cometh that unhappy hook.
1887. Horsley, Jottings from Jail. Take my tip and turn square, from a hook who is going to be lagged, would be, in common parlance, take my advice and get your living honestly.