from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Soil \Soil\, n. [OF. soil, souil, F. souille, from OF. soillier,
F. souiller. See {Soil} to make dirty.]
A marshy or miry place to which a hunted boar resorts for
refuge; hence, a wet place, stream, or tract of water, sought
for by other game, as deer.
[1913 Webster]
As deer, being stuck, fly through many soils,
Yet still the shaft sticks fast. --Marston.
[1913 Webster]
{To take soil}, to run into the mire or water; hence, to take
refuge or shelter.
[1913 Webster]
O, sir, have you taken soil here? It is well a man
may reach you after three hours' running. --B.
Jonson.
[1913 Webster]