Feet, do your stuff!

What is the earliest recorded instance of the phrase ‘Feet, do your stuff!’?

The phrase “Feets, don’t fail me now!” is usually attributed to Mantan Moreland and probably originated some time in the 1940’s, according to some brief research.

I’m reading some Li’l Abner comics, and ‘Feet, do yo’ stuff!’ is in one from 1935.

So anything earlier than 1935?

Moses, right after the Red Sea parted.

The original phrase may have been “Feets–do your duty!” which we’ve traced back to 1918. And, “Feets–do yo’ stuff!” from 1925.

But, if you feel compelled to search antiquity—

1693-William Congreve-The Old Batchelour.

“…Why do you not move? Feet do your Office—Not one Inch;…” :slight_smile:


Nothing new under the Sun.

Where did these phrases appear?