A collection of contributions of money from a group of people, particularly to buy drinks or for a charitable purpose.
it looked like a tarpaulin muster would be needed to help cover the deficit
Example sentencesExamples
A few weeks ago, a gang of men stationed there had a tarpaulin muster and 10 shillings was collected.
Tarpaulin musters were also commonly practiced when a popular shipmate was discharged from the service without funds.
They depended upon tarpaulin musters and passing the hat collections for support.
Someone suggested a 'tarpaulin muster' and they put all they had on the table.
These friends, together with the remainder of the Ship's Company, responded generously when a 'tarpaulin muster' was held to raise money for the deceased members' dependants.
I have seen small children on the racecourse make a tarpaulin muster to get sufficient money to buy a ticket on the tote.
'Ere, boys, let's 'ave a tarpaulin muster an' we'll buy the place.
I decided to return before the others in the Star bar, not because I was skint as there was always the 'tarpaulin muster' to rely on, but an early night was always a good idea.