Green’s Dictionary of Slang

to come out with an oft-repeated anecdote, homily or joke.

1901

Bulletin (Sydney) 13 Jul. 12/4: In the average parsonage of real life it’s a waste of time looking to Pa for finery – ask him for a new hat and he’ll chestnut you re ‘the adornment of a meek and quiet spirit’ – but in the Blandoltian rectory the Apostle’s own ewe lamb prances round in swagger flowered muslin.