back and fill

[Ivo]

I know the common interpretation of the expression “back and fill” namely “vacillate, be undecided”, as in:

This measure will never be passed if the town meeting continues to back and fill.

I know also this term comes from sailing ships, where it signifies alternately backing and filling the sails, a method used when the wind is running against a ship in a narrow channel.

Would you tell me whether I am right with my interpretation of the expression in bold in the following sentences?

The runner watched the long car back and fill in the narrow street, to return wherever it came from… (W. Faulkner, “A Fable”, “Tuesday, Wednesday, Wednesday Night” )

Nimble stewards back and fill from galley to pantry.

back and fill = move in zigzags

Thanks for your efforts.

[Mister Micawber]

Yes
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's