To say or repeat the mariner’s compass, not only backwards or forwards, but also to be able to answer any and all questions respecting its divisions. SEA TERM.
Definition taken from The 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, originally by Francis Grose.
bowyer * to box the jesuitNathan Bailey's 1721 Dictionary of canting and thieving slang
John S. Farmer's collection of canting songs and slang rhymes