What does this expression mean?

Posted by Ben McDevitt on April 23, 2003

I have heard a phrase several times on British TV shows which I cannot figure out. It is usually said in the context of a character reacting to a surprising piece of news given to him or her by another character. The phrase is:

"Well I'll go to the foot of our stairs!"

I cannot for the life of me work out what walking over to the bottom of a staircase has to do with being surprised. Any idea?

Even if not, thank you! I've learnt some very interesting facts from this forum.