Farmer’s Slang & Its Analogues. 1890–1909, rev. 2022.
Observationist
subs. (thieves’).—See quot.
1
1889. BARRÈRE and LELAND, A Dictionary of Slang, Jargon & Cant, s.v. OBSERVATIONIST, one who looks out tempting objects for the skilful thief to steal, etc. Generally pedlars, hawkers, etc.
