adv. Also 4–6 tidely. [f. TIDY a. + -LY2.] In a tidy manner; † betimes, seasonably, duly (obs.); suitably, in an orderly manner, skilfully, neatly, etc.: see TIDY.
1340–70. Alisaunder, 194. Þe fairest feete þat euer freke kende, With ton [= toes] tidily wrought.
c. 1350. Will. Palerne, 4454. Alphouns … buskes in to þe baþ … & fond it treuli a-tired & tidily warme. Ibid., 5482. He … tok to him tidely trewe cunsayl euere.
c. 1400. Destr. Troy, 6839. Þen the Troiens, with tene, tidely þai faght.
1557–8. Ld. Wentworth, in Hardwicke, St. Papers (1778), I. 112. I will do what I can tidily to signify unto your Majesty our State.
1593. G. Harvey, New Lett., Wks. (Grosart), I. 259. You haue lately … very tidely playde the Bees part.
1771. Mrs. Haywood, A New Present, 252. To dress herself tidily and quickly.
1832. R. & J. Lander, Exped. Niger, I. iii. 112. The inhabitants are … very tidily clad in cotton dresses.
1870. Mrs. Riddell, Austin Friars, i. The plates are all ranged tidily away.
