go to the mattresses

Etymology
From 's gangster novel The Godfather (1969). Those involved in such a conflict might be expected to stay in hideouts where they would sleep on mattresses rather than in beds.

Verb

 * 1)  To go to war; to use ruthless tactics; to act without restraint.
 * 2) * 2008, "Transcript: CNN LARRY KING LIVE—Interview with Senator Hillary Clinton," CNN analyst Jamal Simmons speaking, 21 Apr.:
 * Now, when you're fighting Republicans . . . Democrats are all rallied around and ready to go ahead and go to the mattresses.
 * 1) * 2008, "Transcript: CNN LARRY KING LIVE—Interview with Senator Hillary Clinton," CNN analyst Jamal Simmons speaking, 21 Apr.:
 * Now, when you're fighting Republicans . . . Democrats are all rallied around and ready to go ahead and go to the mattresses.