Green’s Dictionary of Slang

(UK Und.) a tinker who alternates legitimate work with begging.

c.1561

Awdeley Fraternitye of Vacabondes in Viles & Furnivall (1907) 5: A Tinkard leaueth his bag a sweating at the Alehouse, which they terme their Bowsing In, and in the meane season goeth abrode a begging.