cap in hand

adv

Etymology: From the act of removing one's headwear as a sign of respect or submission. Attested from the 19th century.

1. In a humble and respectful manner.

   “No longer were we required to go cap in hand to the banks if we wanted money: they were coming to us.”

   “He has also been good enough to recommend to me many tradesmen who are ready to supply these articles in any quantities; each of whom has been here already a dozen times, cap in hand, and vowing that it is quite immaterial when I pay—which is very kind of them; […]”