"Crabs and Ice Water" - Origin?

Posted by Curious Mike on March 10, 2005

While playing cards(cribbage) the other night, a friend who had no point in his hand, remarked how he had "crabs and ice water", as an indication that he had nothing.

While I have heard this phrase before, it is one that I do not hear very often.

Any guesses on it's origins?

Thanks!