What is a 'deal-topped table'?

Question

I've really only ever seen this mentioned in reference to Sherlock Holmes, but there's a poem out there that also mentions a 'dresser of deal', which could mean anything, but... What does this mean? A trivial question, I know, but it's driving me crazy!

Answer 1

A deal is a plank of sawn timber. A table topped with same is a deal-topped table. Someone who finishes (planes, smooths etc.) same is a dresser of deal.