The action of the vb. CANVASS, q.v.
1565. Jewel, Repl. Harding (1611), 86. This errour must needs hold by the canuasing of the Scriptures.
1577. Stanyhurst, Desc. Irel., in Holinshed, VI. 25. Through the canvasing of the towne merchants … that famous Mart was supprest.
1589. Cooper, Admon., 142. Such canuasing and working for Bishoprikes.
1606. Holland, Sueton., 34 a. That pastime with us in some places called the canvasing, and else where the vanning of dogs.
1613. R. C., Table Alph. (ed. 3), Canuasing, narrowly searching out of any thing.
1620. Shelton, Quix., IV. v. II. 55. She told likewise all the Story of his Canvasing.
1753. Smollett, Ct. Fathom (1784), 121/2. He … after much canvassing agreed to discharge the defendant.
1838. Dickens, Nich. Nick., xvi. 121. At canvassing or election time.
† b. (ellipt. const. for ‘a-canvassing.’)
1681. Temple, Mem., III. (R.). The elections were canvassing for a new parliament.
