(tō) noun
A short, coarse hemp or flax fiber prepared for spinning. [Prob. OE tōw- for spinning, as in tōwlic pertaining to spinning]

(tō) v.t.
To pull or drag by a rope or chain; drag or pull along. See synonyms under DRAW.
—noun
1. The act of towing, or the state of being towed.
2. That which is towed, as barges by a tugboat.
3. That which tows.
4. A rope or cable used in towing; towline.
—to take in tow To take in charge for or as for towing; take under protection; take charge of. [OE togian]