subs. (American).—See quot. and DRINKS.

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  1838.  J. C. NEAL, Charcoal Sketches, I. 63. A fluid sometimes termed ‘RAILROAD,’ from the rapidity with which it hurries men to the end of their journey.

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  Verb. (American).—To run a matter with all speed; TO RUSH (q.v.).

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  1887.  Scientific American, 16 July, N.S., lvii. 37. The Alien act, that was ‘RAILROADED’ through at the close of the last session.

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  1889.  Popular Science Monthly, xxxii. 758. A New York daily some time ago reported that a common thief … was ‘RAILROADED’ through court in a few days.

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