His statement is seen as an attempt to 'climb down' [='back away'] from the strong denial he made yesterday.
a 'climbing plant' [=a plant that attaches itself to something, such as a wall, as it grows up it]
The players 'climbed' into their uniforms [=put on their uniforms] and headed for the field.
(..) You should die of shame to leave me here alone and helpless! You helpless? Heaven help the Yankees if they capture you! Now, climb down here. I want to say goodbye. No! Climb down. Oh, Rhett, please don't go. You can't leave me, please. (..)1939 Gone with the Wind
(..) -Goodbye. -Goodbye. -Goodbye. Scarlett! Scarlett! Climb into this buggy. This is no day for walking. You'll get run over. Oh, Rhett! Drive me to Aunt Pitty's, please. Panic's a pretty sight, isn't it? (..)1939 Gone with the Wind