take post

verb3

1. •
   (figurative, no longer used) To begin to serve any position, particularly (UK military, historical) to be named a post-captain.
2. •
   (figurative, no longer used) To establish oneself in a defensive or offensive position.

   • ISCARIOT at the table’s lowest foot Took post, where best he might escape that glance, From whose intelligence no heart could hide Its guilty meditations: — 1792
3. •
   (figurative, no longer used) To travel as quickly as possible by whatever means.

   • I saw her laid low in her kindred’s vault, And presently took post to tell it you: — 1591