The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs (314 page)

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lay

see
it is easier to RAISE the Devil than to lay him
.

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LAY-OVERS for meddlers

An answer to an impertinent or inquisitive child and others. The expression is found chiefly in the north of England, and in the US.
Lay-overs
, also contracted to
layers
or
layors
, are light blows or smacks given to the meddlesome (but see also quot. 1854). Cf.
1699
B. E.
New Dict. Canting Crew
s.v.
Lare-over
, said when the true Name of the thing must (in decency) be concealed.

1785
Classical Dict. Vulgar Tongue
s.v.
Lareovers
,
Lareovers for medlers
, an answer frequently given to children .. as a rebuke for their impertinent curiosity.
1854
Glossary of Northamptonshire Words & Phrases
I. 389
Lay-o'ers-for-meddlers
, .. a contraction of
lay-overs
, i.e. things
laid over
, covered up, or protected from meddlers.
1882
&
Glossary of Lancashire Dialect
179
‘What have yo' getten i'that bag? ’ ‘Layers-for-meddlers—does ta want to know?’
1936
Gone with Wind
xxxii.
When they asked who was going to lend the money she said: ‘Layovers catch meddlers,’ so archly they all laughed.
1945
Whatever goes Up
xv.
‘Know his address?’ ‘I certainly do. Ninety-seven Gramercy Park North, New York.’ She closed the door firmly. ‘Layovers for meddlers,’ she muttered.