1
general::
Phrase(s): in tow
closely following; under someone’s control. • The nanny walked into the park with three children in tow. • The manager went to the meeting with her staff in tow.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
In one's charge or close guidance; along with one. For example, The older girl took the new student in tow, or Peter always had his family in tow. This expression alludes to the literal meaning of being pulled along. [Early 1700s]
American Heritage Idioms