I must be going; I have to leave now
Etymology: Old
Irish saying. Purportedly from hunting dogs who are worn out, sitting on the feet of their owner to take them home. Some say
Irish Setter was named because of this phrase.
Earliest known occurrence was by famous
Irish author, Maria Edgeworth in her political essay, "Essay on Irish Bulls"
We've been standing here talking a
donkey's year and the dog is at my
feet, so I better get home before my
wife eats the head off me.