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Answers to Crosaire No: 14604 - 21 Oct 11, Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:17:00 +0000

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After breaking my duck yesterday, I fell again today. I foolishly opted for TANNING instead of CANNING, and so the clock just kept on running. r0ow. Ah well ...

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: AB(STAIN)ER
In the “bare” (AB-ER) mark (STAIN) = ABSTAINER: just won’t do it.
9: ACT ONE
10: ST-U-DYING
The saint (ST) with “you” (U) on your deathbed (DYING) = STUDYING: working.
11: SEAN-CE
John (SEAN) is the “start” of the answer = SEANCE: a spirited occasion.
12: SE(LE)CT
In “the body of the kirk” (SE-CT) “the” French (LE) = SELECT: choose.
"Kirk" is a word for a church, in Scotland ...
14: ITEM
“Time”, an anagram = ITEM: one lot.
15: DO(S)ES
Performs (DO-ES) around “the South” (S) for = DOSES: medicines.
16: RED SEA
“As deer”, an anagram = RED SEA: get water here they can’t drink.
18: A-BUTTER
One fat (A BUTTER) ram (A BUTTER) = ABUTTER: next thing to it.
21: REPLETE
Make a fold again (RE-PLEAT) by the sound of it = REPLETE: full.
24: NOT-ICE
It isn’t frozen (NOT ICE) = NOTICE: see that.
26: ALTER
For the church (ALTAR) by the sound of it = ALTER: change.
30: ANON
In short, you don’t know who (ANON) but not now (ANON).
Simple, but sweet ...
31: O-RALLY
Get round (O) and get together (RALLY) = ORALLY: by word of mouth.
Nice ...
32: TYR-ANT
“Try” (TYR) to get to “the insect” (ANT) and = TYRANT: oppress it.
33: INDUS-TRY
By the flower of India (INDUS) attempt (TRY) = INDUSTRY: manufacture.
34: OUNCES
“Once” to get “us”, an anagram = OUNCES: pound altogether.
35: AGREEMENT
Contract (AGREEMENT) yes (AGREEMENT) all are in (AGREEMENT).

Down
2: BUTTER
Over bread (“bred”, by the sound of it) = BUTTER: A-BUTTER might be one such.
3: TI-DIED
I'm sure there’s a typo and the clue should read something like, “In order to have turned up, it passed away” …
To have turned “it” up (TI) and “passed away” (DIED) = TIDIED: in order.
4: I’D-IO-TS
I had (I’D) TTTTTTTTTT, ‘ten Ts’ (IO TS) = IDIOTS: silly!
5: ENGLISH
6: SC-HE-ME
Counsel (SC) himself (HE) and myself (ME) for = SCHEME: plot.
7: GO AND SEE
In-vest-i-gate.
8: RE-LEG-A-TED
Get another limb (RE-LEG) to “a boy” (A TED) and = RELEGATED: put down.
11: SERVE
That’ll do (SERVE) not to be the boss (SERVE).
To “do” for someone is to “serve”.
13: COST
Buy (“by”, by the sound of it”) for this.
17: CAR-NATION
Mechanical folk (CAR NATION) = CARNATION: blooming.
19: UNT-I-RING
The twisted “nut” (UNT) I phone (I RING) = UNTIRING: never gets weary of it.
20: E-VENT
East (E) way out (VENT) = EVENT: happen to be.
22: PIER
Milord (PEER) by the sound of him = PIER: goes out to sea.
23: C(ANN-IN)G
The girl in (-ANN-IN-) is “inside” the answer = CANNING: preserving.
25: CAN’T-ED
Is unable (CAN’T) the editor (ED) = CANTED: to be so inclined.
27: TOD-DLE
Dorothy, ‘Dot’, came up (TOD) and “led” one (DLE) for = TODDLE: a little walk.
28: RANSOM
One managed a little (RAN SOME) sounds as if = RANSOM: extortion.
29: FLORIN
This used to be “to bob”, by the sound of it (TWO BOB) = FLORIN.
Clue of the Day … if only for the nostalgia!

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: AB(STAIN)ER
9: ACT ONE
10: ST-U-DYING
11: SEAN-CE
12: SE(LE)CT
14: ITEM
15: DO(S)ES
16: RED SEA
18: A-BUTTER
21: REPLETE
24: NOT-ICE
26: ALTER
30: ANON
31: O-RALLY
32: TYR-ANT
33: INDUS-TRY
34: OUNCES
35: AGREEMENT

Down
2: BUTTER
3: TI-DIED
4: I’D-IO-TS
5: ENGLISH
6: SC-HE-ME
7: GO AND SEE
8: RE-LEG-A-TED
11: SERVE
13: COST
17: CAR-NATION
19: UNT-I-RING
20: E-VENT
22: PIER
23: C(ANN-IN)G
25: CAN’T-ED
27: TOD-DLE
28: RANSOM
29: FLORIN

Answers to Crosaire No: 14603 - 20 Oct 11, Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:38:00 +0000

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I am really finding the puzzles tough to solve this week, but finally I managed to bring one home. I had all sort of problems along the way though. The first mistake was writing in INWARD for TOWARD. I had to come up with CONCERTED in order to give me a guess at 1-across, which I then incorrectly pencilled in as LOCOMOTION, but at least that forced me to make the correction for TOWARD. I finally unravelled VIOLENT, forcing me to make the correction to LOCOMOTIVE. WOOD-CRAFT took forever, but it gave me SCULLION. That gave me an L at either end of the answer that turned out to LOYAL. I was thinking that what turned out to be A LADY actually ended in -AIL, so LOYAL wasn’t easy coming either. At least the last two answers popped in readily enough, namely BAIL, and WERE back down in the southeast corner. It was a rough ride which surprisingly only took me 19m 04s. I thought I had taken a lot longer. r1ow ...

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: LOCOMOTIVE
Obviously a LOCOMOTIVE travels on a rail line, but why “once”? Maybe it’s that we had steam locomotives once, and don’t anymore? Anyone?
6: BAIL
Out on this (BAIL) to get the water out (BAIL).
One can be “out on bail”.
10: TEN-ON
X (TEN) upon (ON) saw (SAW) = TENON SAW: this for a carpenter.
11: WOOD-CRAFT
The ships at Trafalgar (WOOD CRAFT) = WOODCRAFT: skill that made the ships at Trafalgar.
Quite nice …
12: RE-CHARGE
There is a typo and “one” should reach “once”:
Attack once more (RE-CHARGE) = RECHARGE: not that the battery is strong again to do this.
13: LOYAL
I’ll need help with this one too. To be LOYAL is to be “full of faith”, but why do we have “by the sound of it”?
UPDATE: Frank solved this one for me:
"Faith" that's "full" of it (FAITH FULL) by the sound of it (FAITHFUL) = LOYAL.
15: ESTEEMS
What LOCOMOTIVE does (STEAMS) sounds like (-STEEMS) is the “last” part of the answer = ESTEEMS: in this regard.
17: TRI(VI)AL
Court case (TRIAL) about six [TRI(VI)AL] or about four [TR(IV)IAL] = TRIVIAL: not an important.
Clue of the Day!
19: IN-DIANA
In (IN) GIRL (DIANA) = INDIANA: the state.
21: C-ON-FIRM
A hundred (C) on (ON) the company (FIRM) = CONFIRM: prove.
Tight …
22: TOAST
Get heated (TOAST) for the good of one’s health (TOAST, good health!).
24: OVER-SEAS
Across the ocean, a-broad.
27: IN-TENT-I-ON
To be camping (IN TENT) with “one on” the end (I ON) = INTENTION: meaning.
28: RAISE
Sun-beams (RAYS) the sound of = RAISE: get up.
29: GIRL
“Rig” up (GIR) to “fifty” (L) = GIRL: her.
30: AT-TEN-DANCE
At (AT) the ball that starts at 10:00 pm (TEN DANCE) = ATTENDANCE: being at.

Down
1: LOTS
There’s many of them (LOTS) bid for here (LOTS).
2: CONCERT-ED
Music (CONCERT) with “the editor” (ED) = CONCERTED: mutual.
3: MONTH
A matter of days (“daze”, by the sound of it) = MONTH: May, for one.
4: TO-WARDS
In this direction (TOWARDS) in this direction they’ll all have to be patient (TO WARDS).
5: VIOLE(N)T
Blooming (VIOLE-T) around “the North” (N) = VIOLENT: they’re not peaceful.
7: A LADY
A thousand (M) with “what Ma is” (A LADY) could be = MALADY: sick with it.
Very tricky …
8: LITTLE LAMB
All Mary had, in the nursery rhyme (LITTLE LAMB) as a matter of course, at a meal (LITTLE LAMB).
9: SCUL-LION
A beastly (-LION) is at the “end” of the answer = SCULLION: does beastly work.
A SCULLION did the menial work in the kitchen, and was the male equivalent of a scullery maid, as we saw in a Look-Up of the Day back in May of 2009 …
14: BE-LITTLE
To say the least (BE LITTLE) = BELITTLE: to be dis-pa-raging.
16: EXACT-ING
Precisely (EXACT) “gin” (ING) = EXACTING: may make demands of you.
18: I’M-IT-AT-ION
I am (I’M) the thing (IT) at (AT) the ion (ION) = IMITATION: but not originally.
20: A-M(OR)IST
A fog (A M-IST) “or” in (OR) = AMORIST: a loving one.
An oldie but goody …
21: C(LEAN)SE
One is inclined (-LEAN-) is “inside” the answer = CLEANSE: the wash.
23: AFTER
Following (AFTER) there’s no on (NO-ON) for = AFTERNOON: the PM.
25: SH-RED
Telling “shut up” (SH) to “the revolutionary” (RED) for = SHRED: a scrap.
Very nice …
26: WERE
“We are” shortly (WE’RE) wolf (WOLF) = WEREWOLF: the sort of witch we’re afraid of.
Something like that, I think ...

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: LOCOMOTIVE
6: BAIL
10: TEN-ON
11: WOOD-CRAFT
12: RE-CHARGE
13: LOYAL
15: ESTEEMS
17: TRI(VI)AL
19: IN-DIANA
21: C-ON-FIRM
22: TOAST
24: OVER-SEAS
27: IN-TENT-I-ON
28: RAISE
29: GIRL
30: AT-TEN-DANCE

Down
1: LOTS
2: CONCERT-ED
3: MONTH
4: TO-WARDS
5: VIOLE(N)T
7: A LADY
8: LITTLE LAMB
9: SCUL-LION
14: BE-LITTLE
16: EXACT-ING
18: I’M-IT-AT-ION
20: A-M(OR)IST
21: C(LEAN)SE
23: AFTER
25: SH-RED
26: WERE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14602 - 19 Oct 11, Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:28:00 +0000

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I was flying by the seat of my pants for the last half of today’s puzzle, really not feeling in control at all. I just couldn’t give up with so much blank space staring at me. I was putting in answers that I wasn’t sure of, but just “felt” right, like RATHE, FURORE, ORB, and TWO. My last in was MEDLER, which turned out to be my downfall, as it should have been MEDLAR. I had everything else right, darn it. It has been a long time (decades!) since I clocked up a week of misses, but I’m off to a good start this week with three ducks in a row!

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: TRUMPS
Blow them (TRUMPS) It’s on the cards they’ll win (TRUMPS).
“Trump” is an old term for a trumpet …
4: ABO(R)T-I’VE
[In a “boat” (ABO-T) “are” a little (R) = ABORT] I have (I’VE) = ABORTIVE: fruitless.
9: MATTER
“Sup” it up (PUS) = MATTER: what’s the trouble.
“Matter” is another word for “pus”, as we’ve seen before many times …
10: AG(IT-AT)ED
In “as of old” (AG-ED) it at (IT AT) = AGITATED: shaken.
12: HYMNS
Not hers (HIMS) by the sound of it = HYMNS: for the singing.
13: SENTENCES
15: AGA
The leader (AGA) gets “in” (IN) = AGAIN: once more.
16: ME-L-ON
Put “me” (ME) fifty (L) on (ON) it may bear = MELON: fruit.
17: BEFORE
“Be” the double of “TWO” (BE FOUR) sounds as if = BEFORE.
22: MEDLAR
This will interfere (MEDDLER) sound as if = MEDLAR: the fruit.
A medlar is an apple-shaped fruit that comes from a medlar tree, I just learned …
24: DANCE
A bun (A BUN) a ball (DANCE) would be for = ABUNDANCE: more than enough.
27: ORB
All round (ORB) add “it” (IT) to get = ORBIT: a course.
28: ICELANDER
I am not just to (I SLANDER) sounds like = ICELANDER: him in the cold.
31: RA-TES
Is “the artist” (RA) “set” up (TES) for = RATES: speeds.
32: CA(N)TERED
Provided food (CA-TERED) around “the North” (N) = CANTERED: at speed.
33: C(AN-A)AN
Able (C-AN) to get around “an A” (AN A) = CANAAN: there of old.
34: SELFSAME
35: A-TT-END
No drink for him (A TT) at “last” (END) = ATTEND: if he can come.

Down
1: TOM THUMB
Is always on hand (THUMB) points to = TOM THUMB: that little fellow.
2: UNTIMELY
“Unity” for “me” and fifty, “L”, more, an anagram = UNTIMELY: too early.
3: PLEAS(ANC)E
To give one pleasure (PLEAS-E) “can” be in there (ANC) = PLEASANCE: in the garden.
A “pleasance” is a secluded garden, which is new to me but sounds lovely …
5: BEGUN
To “be” (BE) could get fired (GUN) = BEGUN: if started.
6: RAT-HE
That pest (RAT) he (HE) is = RATHE: blooming early.
A plant described as “rathe” tends to bloom or ripen early in the year, as we saw in a Look-Up of the Day back in March of last year …
7: IN-TACT
In diplomacy (IN TACT) = INTACT: all in one piece.
8: EL(D)EST
In “steel” (EL-EST) hundreds (D) = ELDEST: senior (“seen your” sound).
11: ISABEL
Needed on a bike (IS A BELL) sounds like = ISABEL: she.
14: TWO
Is there “anything” in rural England (OWT) up here = TWO.
I lived in Sheffield for a while, and “owt” meaning “anything” was thrown into the conversation quite a lot …
18: FUR-ORE
Hair (FUR) over “crude” (ORE) = FURORE: what a fuss.
I think the wording in the clue is a bit back-to-front, unless it’s me that’s back-to-front …
19: REDBREAST
A bleeding heart (RED BREAST) = REDBREAST: rob-in.
Clue of the Day!
20: IN-IT-I-ATE
In it (IN IT) I was fed (I ATE) = INITIATE: for a start.
21: RE-A-SON-ED
About (RE) a boy (A SON) Edward (ED) to be = REASONED: thought.
23: DAN
DAN-CE is BEGUN (DAN) = DAN: for judo.
A DAN is one of the 12 levels of proficiency at the grade of black belt ...
25: DISCUS
Talk it over (DISCUSS) by the sound of it = DISCUS: being thrown around.
26: FEN-NEL
The bog (FEN) is little Leonard, ‘Len’, up there (NEL) = FENNEL: weedy.
29: ARE-AS
Is and is (ARE) like (AS) = AREAS: these spaces.
30: D(RE)AM
“Mad” up (D-AM) around “about” (RE) = DREAM: a vision.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: TRUMPS
4: ABO(R)T-I’VE
9: MATTER
10: AG(IT-AT)ED
12: HYMNS
13: SENTENCES
15: AGA
16: ME-L-ON
17: BEFORE
22: MEDLAR
24: DANCE
27: ORB
28: ICELANDER
31: RA-TES
32: CA(N)TERED
33: C(AN-A)AN
34: SELFSAME
35: A-TT-END

Down
1: TOM THUMB
2: UNTIMELY
3: PLEAS(ANC)E
5: BEGUN
6: RAT-HE
7: IN-TACT
8: EL(D)EST
11: ISABEL
14: TWO
18: FUR-ORE
19: REDBREAST
20: IN-IT-I-ATE
21: RE-A-SON-ED
23: DAN
25: DISCUS
26: FEN-NEL
29: ARE-AS
30: D(RE)AM

Answers to Crosaire No: 14601 - 18 Oct 11, Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:01:00 +0000

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I found today’s puzzle to be very, very tough. I fought it for quite a while, suspecting that I’d have to give up with some squares unfilled. But finish I did, although the clock did not stop for me. I tossed up between IGLANTENE and EGLANTINE and lost. With the benefit of hindsight, I can see that I chose the less likely of the two options, but too late! A pristine row of ducks so far this week …

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: IN THE DOCK
A-c-c-used to be there (IN THE DOCK) with ships (IN THE DOCK).
9: DEB-ATE
Turned the “bed” over (DEB) and had a meal (ATE) and = DEBATE: an argument.
Tight enough …
10: EGLANTINE
Broken “engine” about to “‘alt”, an anagram = EGLANTINE: is the blooming.
“Eglantine” is another word for “sweetbrier”, both of which are new to me. I don’t recall EGLANTINE as an answer in Crosaire, but we did get a peek at in a WILD THYME Look-Up of the Day back in September of last year …
11: BANTAM
There’s not much that’s fowl (by the sound of it “foul”) about this.
A bantam is a small breed of fowl, as we’ve seen before ...
12: RE-HEARSED
Perhaps got the coffin in there again for transport (RE-HEARSED) = REHEARSED: just for practice.
An oldie but goody …
13: CAR-E’EN
It’s for transport (CAR) even (E’EN) = CAREEN: if you turn it over.
17: A-SH
A request to say nothing about (A SH) = ASH: one’s been fired.
19: EXCISED
Cut out (EXCISED) in a “dutiful” manner, perhaps (EXCISED).
20: O(VERSE)T
“To” turn (O-T) around “the poetry” (VERSE) = OVERSET: does it disturb one.
21: OUT
That (OUT) will get one “back” (BACK) = OUTBACK: in Australia.
23: LO(LL)ED
In the “dole” (LO-ED) it was “fifty-fifty” (LL) = LOLLED: if you did no work.
27: DYNAM-ITED
Might “Mandy” get “tied” in a knot, two anagrams (DYNAM-ITED) or = DYNAMITED: blown up.
28: BLIMPS
Being so conservative (BLIMPS) they got blown up (BLIMPS).
A “blimp” is a conservative and pompous person, I just found out …
29: ESTAM-I-NET
Officers on board, ‘mates’ (ESTAM) that “I catch” (I NET) = ESTAMINET: inn (“in” by the sound of it), in France.
An ESTAMINET is a small cafe or bar, en France, as we’ve seen before …
30: RIGHTS
There’s nothing left (RIGHTS) of what you should demand (RIGHTS).
31: ASSES-SING
When they get to bray, perhaps (ASSES SING) = ASSESSING: working out how much.
What we do without Mr. C’s beloved asses …?

Down
2: NUG-GET
With “a weapon”, ‘gun’, turn up (NUG) and “get” (GET) = NUGGET: great value for it.
3: HEAVE-N
To pull (HEAVE) “the North” to (N) = HEAVEN: the best place.
4: D-ETERS
500 (D) “trees” to chop up (ETERS) = DETERS: this gives one no encouragement.
5: CAN’T-ERS
Not able (CAN’T-) is the “start” of the answer = CANTERS: to go as fast as they.
6: SEPARATED
How one took a-part.
7: PAST TENSE
“Will” will not do for this (that would be the “future tense”).
8: GERMINATE
A European was fed something (GERMAN ATE) sounds as if = GERMINATE: to make him sprout.
Nice one …
14: HELL-E-BORE
The opposite of HEAVEN (HELL) ‘e (E) endured (BORE) = HELLEBORE:
HELLEBORE is a perennial found in Europe, examples of which are Christmas Rose and Lenten Rose (although HELLEBORE plants do not belong to the rose family). Green HELLEBORE is used as a heart medicine. We first came across HELLEBORE in Crosaire No. 1, way back in March of 1943 …
15: S(COLD)INGS
One makes a song (S-INGS) about “the opposite of HOT” (COLD) = SCOLDINGS: with disapproval.
16: OSTEO-PATH
Broken “toes” (OSTEO) round “the walkway” (PATH) = OSTEOPATH: that’s one way to if you’ve got broken toes.
Quite nice …
17: ADO
With “such fuss” (ADO) one might have got a “ring” (RING) = ADORING: with love.
18: HOT
What the start of HELL-EBORE (HELL) is said to be = HOT.
22: ULYSSES
24: PA-LATE
Your “father” (PA) now deceased (LATE) = PALATE: had good taste.
25: L(I’M)ITS
There’s a typo and “slits” should read “slit” …
In the “slit” (L-ITS) I’m (IM) = LIMITS: couldn’t be more so.
26: S(EVER)N
Between “the poles” (S-N) always (EVER) = SEVERN: that’s what flows.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: IN THE DOCK
9: DEB-ATE
10: EGLANTINE
11: BANTAM
12: RE-HEARSED
13: CAR-E’EN
17: A-SH
19: EXCISED
20: O(VERSE)T
21: OUT
23: LO(LL)ED
27: DYNAM-ITED
28: BLIMPS
29: ESTAM-I-NET
30: RIGHTS
31: ASSES-SING

Down
2: NUG-GET
3: HEAVE-N
4: D-ETERS
5: CAN’T-ERS
6: SEPARATED
7: PAST TENSE
8: GERMINATE
14: HELL-E-BORE
15: S(COLD)INGS
16: OSTEO-PATH
17: ADO
18: HOT
22: ULYSSES
24: PA-LATE
25: L(I’M)ITS
26: S(EVER)N

Answers to Crosaire No: 14600 - 17 Oct 11, Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:56:00 +0000

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Wasn’t that a lovely puzzle? I thought it was a great way to close out another century of crosswords from Mr. Crozier, No. 14,600. Having said that, I cannot report a clean start to the week as I fluffed one letter, putting in CUTTER instead of CUTLER. A shame really because, when I was living in Sheffield, I’d sometimes take the Master Cutler, the famous express train that runs between London and Steel City. Not a good one to miss. All hope of a Sweep this week dashed, right at the outset.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
8: GRUESOME
One raised a few (GREW SOME) by the sound of it = GRUESOME: so ghastly.
Clue of the Day!
9: IRON-IC
Steel (IRON) I see (IC) = IRONIC: meaning the opposite.
10: RAN-CID
Managed the detectives (RAN CID) = RANCID: but gone to the bad.
An oldie but goody …
11: SING-LET’S
Make a song, shall we? (SING, LET’S) = SINGLETS: about underwear?
Excellent!
12: A-SPIRE
Over the church (A SPIRE) to be = ASPIRE: be ambitious.
13: TICK-TOCK
Very nice too …
15: REED
The beastly thing (DEER) back, for = REED: rush.
17: DIS-EASE
Is comfortable (-EASE) is the “last” part of the answer = DISEASE: well, it’s not.
19: LEGLESS
Is this why the (LEGLESS) serpent gets footless (LEGLESS)?
22: LEES
“EELS”, an anagram = LEES: all that’s left of the drink.
The “lees” are the sediment in wine, the dregs …
24: OP(TIM)IST
“I stop” (OP-IST) around “Timothy” (TIM) = OPTIMIST: hoping for the best.
27: PE(GG)ED
In the “deep”, back there (PE-ED) the horse (GG) = PEGGED: staked.
29: PRO-POSER
The professional artist’s model (PRO POSER) = PROPOSER: is looking like this for a second.
30: CUTLER
A “cutler” is one who works at making knives, or perhaps sharpening and repairing them …
31: SEE-THE
Just take a look (SEE) at “the” (THE) = SEETHE: boil.
Another oldie but goody …
32: ANACONDA
Though LEGLESS, it’s not one of the EELS.

Down
1: BREAKS
They stop one (BRAKES) sounds as if = BREAKS: in pieces.
2: DE-SCRIBE
The editor, ‘ed’ (DE) got “the writer” (SCRIBE) = DESCRIBE: to tell him all about it.
3: SOLDIERS
Disposed of ears (SOLD EARS) by the sound of it, for = SOLDIERS: the forces.
Tricky enough …
4: WEB-SITE
A place for the spider’s trap (WEB SITE) = WEBSITE: found using a computer.
Nice contemporary clue from Mr. C …
5: PICNIC
Select Nicholas (PICK NICK) sounds like = PICNIC: to eat out (with).
6: TO(I)LET
To rent (TO LET) “one” got in there (I) = TOILET: a wash.
7: TIN T-ACKS
The colour of (TINT) the “sack” (ACKS) = TIN TACKS: the point of them.
Tintack, drawing pin, thumbtack; apparently they’re all the same thing …
14: IDLE
One for the heathen (IDOL) sounds as if = IDLE: won’t work well.
16: EELS
Long to be the making of “LEES” (an anagram).
18: I’M-PORTER
Mine's a Guinness (I’M PORTER) and = IMPORTER: I’ll get it in.
Yet another oldie but goody …
20: ESPECIAL
“E places I” (one), an anagram = ESPECIAL: in a particular way.
21: LEG-ATION
How to find your feet (LEG) in another country, perhaps.
A very punny clue!
23: E(TERN)AL
In the beer, ‘ale’ (E-AL) that bird (TERN) is = ETERNAL: forever.
25: I’M-PUT-E
I am to the East (I’M PUT E) = IMPUTE: to attribute this.
Something like that, I think …
26: IS-SUED
Action has been sent out (IS SUED) = ISSUED: “sent out” and “come out”.
28: EM-ENDS
It’s up to “me” (EM) it comes at “last” (ENDS) = EMENDS: as one changes.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
8: GRUESOME
9: IRON-IC
10: RAN-CID
11: SING-LET’S
12: A-SPIRE
13: TICK-TOCK
15: REED
17: DIS-EASE
19: LEGLESS
22: LEES
24: OP(TIM)IST
27: PE(GG)ED
29: PRO-POSER
30: CUTLER
31: SEE-THE
32: ANACONDA

Down
1: BREAKS
2: DE-SCRIBE
3: SOLDIERS
4: WEB-SITE
5: PICNIC
6: TO(I)LET
7: TIN T-ACKS
14: IDLE
16: EELS
18: I’M-PORTER
20: ESPECIAL
21: LEG-ATION
23: E(TERN)AL
25: I’M-PUT-E
26: IS-SUED
28: EM-ENDS

Answers to Crosaire No: 14599 - 15 Oct 11, Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:02:00 +0000

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Well, gosh, darn it, said he politely. After a nice steady roll through the grid today, finishing up on the tricky little clue for FROM, I confidently pulled up my blog-post template and started to write. My cockiness was replaced with a humbling reality check, as the clock was still ticking when I went back to the grid to grab a “picture”. I had MATTER PRESENT instead of MATTER ARISING. Somehow it seemed right to me, so I didn’t even think twice about it. So, back to r0ow, but full of optimism for next week.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: MATTER ARISING
That’ll come up in a minute (at a meeting).
10: MISCAST
11: SCEPTRE
Accept ‘er, sounds like (A SCEPTRE) = SCEPTRE: if she has this on hand for royalty.
12: TEAM
To make “meat” of it, an anagram = TEAM: it may need eleven.
13: REPEL
The afflicted (LEPER) it’s the “turn” on = REPEL: that may put one off.
15: MEND
This (MEND) I can’t (I CAN’T) and be = MENDICANT: a beggar.
17: ROD
I must show my ignorance and ask for help here. I can’t get the “as a king” connection to ROD, just the fishing ROD part of the clue. Anyone?
UPDATE: Liz sorted me out (below)! I feel a right plonker missing this one ...
He (HE) might have gone fishing with this (ROD) = HEROD: as a king.
19: ERENOW
Before now.
21: PIG-EON
The swine (EON) has “lots of time” (EON) = PIGEON: to fly.
22: PENNIES
23: O-US-TED
O, we (O US) Ted (TED) = OUSTED: put out.
25: POMPOM
A gun (POMPOM) for your hat (POMPOM).
27: PET
Under the “car” (CAR) the little dear (PET) = CARPET: on the floor.
29: FIR-M
Irish “gentlemen” (FIR) by the thousands (M) = FIRM: do not give way.
30: MURAL
W-all art.
31: SORT
So kind (SORT) as to get it in order (SORT).
34: CA(TERE)D
Is “the cad” (CA-D) about a “tree” (TERE) = CATERED: to have got good.
35: TRAIPSE
“Is ‘e” to be involved with “TRAP”, an anagram =TRAIPSE: a walk.
36: THE MATTER-HORN
Stuff (THE MATTER) on a head (HORN) = THE MATTERHORN: huge and high.

Down
2: ASS-U-AGE
Silly (ASS) you (U) get older (AGE) = ASSUAGE: does that satisfy you?
3: TRAP
It’s a bit (PART) uppish = TRAP: the catch in this.
4: RAT-HER
A pest (RAT) she is (HER) = RATHER: a bit.
5: RE(ST)ED
Rush (RE-ED) around “the street” (ST) = RESTED.
Hmm …
6: SHE’D
The girl had (SHE’D) disposed of (SHED) the building (SHED).
7: NOT HERE
I’ll need help with this one too. I can see that “other” is in the answer, and that NOT HERE means “is away”, but I can’t seem to pull it all together. Anyone?
UPDATE: Liz also sorted out this one for me. She suggests, and I agree, there's probably a typo in the clue and it should read, "The other is IN this and is away".
The other (-OT-HER-) is "in" the answer = NOT HERE: is away.
8: A MATTER OF FACT
Actually (as A MATTER OF FACT).
9: READING MATTER
Very nice …
14: POINTER
The dog (POINTER) for a show (POINTER).
16: COPES
Manages (COPES) the clergy, they’re wearing them (COPES).
All of us ex-altar boys (oops ... altar servers!) know this one …
18: B(I)SON
In a “snob” (B-SON) “one” is (I) = BISON: big and beastly.
20: WED
21: PEP
Go (PEP) and PEP is a palindrome, goes “up and down”.
Clue of the Day!
24: STRETCH
26: PRO(S)PER
It’s right (PRO-PER) about “the South” (S) = PROSPER: to do this well.
27: PUNDIT
Made a joke about it (PUNNED IT) by the sound of it = PUNDIT: like-wise.
We had a look at the etymology of “pundit” in a Look-Up of the Day in April of last year …
28: TA(TT)LE
In “the story” (TA-LE) won’t drink (TT) = TATTLE: so they say.
32: FROM
“Of Mr.”, an anagram = FROM: not to.
33: WAS-H
Seems H is what it used to be (WAS H) = WASH: in water.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: MATTER ARISING
10: MISCAST
11: SCEPTRE
12: TEAM
13: REPEL
15: MEND
17: ROD
19: ERENOW
21: PIG-EON
22: PENNIES
23: O-US-TED
25: POMPOM
27: PET
29: FIR-M
30: MURAL
31: SORT
34: CA(TERE)D
35: TRAIPSE
36: THE MATTER-HORN

Down
2: ASS-U-AGE
3: TRAP
4: RAT-HER
5: RE(ST)ED
6: SHE’D
7: NOT HERE
8: A MATTER OF FACT
9: READING MATTER
14: POINTER
16: COPES
18: B(I)SON
20: WED
21: PEP
24: STRETCH
26: PRO(S)PER
27: PUNDIT
28: TA(TT)LE
32: FROM
33: WAS-H

Answers to Crosaire No: 14598 - 14 Oct 11, Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:27:00 +0000

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A nice little puzzle today, I thought. No real problems hiding anywhere for me. Last in was BYSTANDER which took a little random “lettering”. r3ow in 9 minutes flat.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: THE DR-INKS
The doctor (THE DR) writes in pen (INKS) for = THE DRINKS: the next round.
Now tell me you didn’t all head for the bar when you solved this one …
9: OP-I-ATE
The work (OP) I swallowed (I ATE) = OPIATE: put me to sleep.
10: BASS-I-NET
The fish (BASS) I catch (I NET) = BASSINET: for baby.
11: HEARSE
Coffin (sounds as if “coughin’) may get you into this.
12: RE-HEAR
I’ll need help with this one ...
Practice (REHEAR-SAL) points to REHEAR: listen again.
Something like that? I don't think REHEAR means to practice, does it?
14: E-VER
E (E) gets “the cleric” back (VER) = EVER: always.
15: RE-SIN
Transgress once more (RE-SIN) and that’s = RESIN: a sticky matter.
16: LE(V)ANT
Inclined (LE-ANT) about “five” (V) for = LEVANT: the Middle East.
18: CROW-NED
Sound cocky, Edward (CROW, NED) = CROWNED: if you want to be a king.
Nice ...
21: UNCLE-AN
Relatively (UNCLE) one (AN) = UNCLEAN: in need of a wash.
24: VICTOR
26: KINGS
The Book of Samuel comes before (the Book of) KINGS: CROWNED ONES.
Clue of the Day!
30: NONE
So good as this sister (NUN) by the sound of it = NONE: there aren’t any.
31: OS-PREY
“So” comes back (OS) to “its victim” (PREY) = OSPREY: the hawk.
Nice enough …
32: NIPPER
The little chap (NIPPER) makes one feel the pinch (NIPPER).
33: COG-IT-ATE
One of COGS (COG) it swallowed (IT ATE) = COGITATE: think about.
34: ELEVEN
“One” and “one” (11) = ELEVEN: a side.
Very nice …
35: BYSTANDER

Down
2: HE-A-TED
He (HE) got “a boy” (A TED) = HEATED: got less cold, got cross.
3: DA’S-HER
Father’s (DA’S) girl (HER) = DASHER: not still.
4: INN-ERS
They have pubs, perhaps (INN-ERS) = INNERS: they’re on target (around the bullseye).
5: KITTENS
“Fee” with “lines” (FEE LINES) = KITTENS: small FELINES (“FEE LINES” by the sound of them).
6: SP-HERE
This point (HERE) is the “last” part of the answer = SPHERE: round.
7: MARRIAGE
8: RE(LENT)ING
During the “reign” (RE-ING) “loaned” it (LENT) and = RELENTING: softening.
11: HELEN
The very devil in (HELL IN) sounds = HELEN: her to launch all those ships.
13: AE-ON
George (Russell) is here (AE) “on” (ON) = AEON: time.
George Russell wrote under the name "AE" …
17: SC-AVENGER
Counsel (SC) does he get justice (AVENGER) or = SCAVENGER: does he get just bits of it left over.
19: OC(CUP)IED
With a “cup” (-CUP-) “in” the answer = OCCUPIED: I am absorbed by it.
20: ERROR
I think there’s a typo here, and perhaps the clue should read something like, “It’s not right after a little tea to have fear”, as we’ve seen oft-times before …
After “a little tea” (T) it’s not right (ERROR) to have = TERROR: fear.
22: COGS
23: SK(ETCH)Y
In “the sky” (SK-Y) draw (ETCH) = SKETCHY: in a rough sort of way.
Very tight, excellent …
25: ONE TEN
27: N-OUGHT
The North (N) should (OUGHT) get = NOUGHT: nothing at all.
28: SPIT ON
No gratuities (NO TIPS) up there = SPIT ON: to show contempt for.
Also excellent, and tight …
29: METTLE
Iron, perhaps (METAL) by the sound of it = METTLE: spirit.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: THE DR-INKS
9: OP-I-ATE
10: BASS-I-NET
11: HEARSE
12: RE-HEAR
14: E-VER
15: RE-SIN
16: LE(V)ANT
18: CROW-NED
21: UNCLE-AN
24: VICTOR
26: KINGS
30: NONE
31: OS-PREY
32: NIPPER
33: COG-IT-ATE
34: ELEVEN
35: BYSTANDER

Down
2: HE-A-TED
3: DA’S-HER
4: INN-ERS
5: KITTENS
6: SP-HERE
7: MARRIAGE
8: RE(LENT)ING
11: HELEN
13: AE-ON
17: SC-AVENGER
19: OC(CUP)IED
20: ERROR
22: COGS
23: SK(ETCH)Y
25: ONE TEN
27: N-OUGHT
28: SPIT ON
29: METTLE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14597 - 13 Oct 11, Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 23:51:00 +0000

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I fairly raced through the puzzle today, with everything falling quite readily. I moved so quickly I am having trouble remembering where I finished up! Last two in, I am pretty sure, were FIGURES followed by SAINTLY. r2ow in 8m 11s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: DOUBLING UP
I might need help with this one:
The capital (DUBLIN) sounds like DOUBLIN’, which points to DOUBLING UP: the up and up.
Anyone see something better?
UPDATE: JD points out that instead of the possible homophone, the "Dublin" connection might be that the letters from "Dublin" are "in" the word "DoUBLINg".
The up and up (DOUBLING UP) and the capital, 'Dublin', is in it (D-o-UBLIN-g up).
6: SCOT
A (A) this, from Scotland (SCOT) for = ASCOT: the race meeting.
10: EX-TRA
The former (EX) craft, ‘art’, backward (TRA) = EXTRA: in addition.
11: UP THE POLE
Where the flag goes (UP THE POLE) can this mean trouble? (UP THE POLE).
12: BR-EAT-HER
The little brother (BR) to “eat her” up (EAT HER) for = BREATHER: break.
13: ARENA
15: S(LICK)LY
In a “sly” (S-LY) give tongue (LICK) = SLICKLY: smooth way.
Slightly suggestive wording!
17: DRIVING
Wood for this of (golf) course.
19: FIGURES
Consider this (FIGURES) in numerous ways (FIGURES).
21: MUNDANE
“A nude man”, an anagram = MUNDANE: so ordinary.
22: R-ETCH
Draw (-ETCH) is the “last” part of the answer = RETCH: to make one sick.
24: I’M-MO-LATE
I am (I’M) the former doctor (MO LATE) = IMMOLATE: sacrifice me.
To immolate is to sacrifice something or someone, especially by fire, as we’ve seen before …
27: OVEREATEN
Taken too much as a matter of course (at a meal).
28: TENSE
Mixed up “teens” for = TENSE: the present, for instance.
Very tight ...
29: ECHO
30: BY YOURSELF
Solo (sounds “so low”) only for you (sounds “4U”) to be this way.

Down
1: DOES
One is doing (DOES) what sounds do “dear”, ‘deer’ (DOES).
2: UPTURNING
Is this cap-sizing.
3: LIANA
LIANA is a vine that grows in the likes of rain forests (and a word I know from the New York Times Crossword), and a Look-Up of the Day back in May of last year …
UPDATE: John McC (below) pointed out that I forgot to explain this clue!
If something that needs driving (A NAIL) with UPTURNING = LIANA: climbing.
4: NAUGHT-Y
Nothing (NAUGHT) Y at the end (Y) could make = NAUGHTY: bad.
5: UTTER-ED
Absolutely (UTTER-) is the “start” of the answer = UTTERED: said.
7: C-HOSE
By “the hundred” (C) stockings (HOSE) get = CHOSE: selected.
Nice one …
8: THE TANG-LES
The bad taste (THE TANG) Leslie (LES) made with = THE TANGLES: those messes.
9: RELATION
In the family way (RELATION) that’d be telling (RELATION).
14: ASK FOR MORE
What Oliver Twist wanted (for a) … second(s).
16: KER-CHIEF
The boss (-CHIEF) is the “last” part of the answer = KERCHIEF: hanky.
18: IN-(A)-STANCE
In “a case of” (IN-STANCE) A (A) = IN A STANCE: in a position to strike.
20: S(AIN’T)LY
In a “cunning” way (S-LY) is not (AIN’T) = SAINTLY: very good.
Clue of the Day!
21: ME(MEN)TO
In the “tome” (ME-TO) people (MEN) give one = MEMENTO: something to remember them by.
23: TEETH
Some incisor (“in size or” sound).
25: LATER
I do (I-DO) this “by and by” (LATER) = IDOLATER: like a heathen.
26: S-ELF
To be so impish (-ELF) is the “last” part of the answer = SELF: it’s personal.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: DOUBLING UP
6: SCOT
10: EX-TRA
11: UP THE POLE
12: BR-EAT-HER
13: ARENA
15: S(LICK)LY
17: DRIVING
19: FIGURES
21: MUNDANE
22: R-ETCH
24: I’M-MO-LATE
27: OVEREATEN
28: TENSE
29: ECHO
30: BY YOURSELF

Down
1: DOES
2: UPTURNING
3: LIANA
4: NAUGHT-Y
5: UTTER-ED
7: C-HOSE
8: THE TANG-LES
9: RELATION
14: ASK FOR MORE
16: KER-CHIEF
18: IN-(A)-STANCE
20: S(AIN’T)LY
21: ME(MEN)TO
23: TEETH
25: LATER
26: S-ELF

Answers to Crosaire No: 14596 - 12 Oct 11, Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:32:00 +0000

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Today’s was a nice challenge, I thought, taking me a bit longer than usual. My last two answers were right at the top and right at the bottom of the puzzle. I took ages to come up with AGREES because I had a pretty definite PRESENTS in for PRESENCE from which I was lucky to walk away. Then it took 3-4 runs through the alphabet to come up with my last answer, LOW PRICE. That puts me at an ever-optimistic r1ow, in 19m 17s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: CLUTCH
Grab (CLUTCH) those eggs (CLUTCH) in the transmission (CLUTCH).
A clutch is a set of eggs being incubated by one bird …
4: LOW PRICE
Do you get a cheap (the sound of “a cheep”) out of it.
9: LOT-ION
That’s how 27-across (LOT) gets “charged” (ION) = LOTION: in liquid form.
10: POST-P-ONE
Put stamps on the LETTER (POST) with the “soft one” (P ONE) = POSTPONE: put it off.
12: FENCE
One will receive (FENCE) while keeping one out (FENCE).
13: CARBON-ATE
C (CARBON) “8”, sounds like (ATE) = CARBONATE.
A little loose, but my kind of clue ...
15: CAR
To get CAR-BONATE started = CAR: one will run.
16: EN(‘EM)A
Ena (EN-A) gets around them (‘EM) = ENEMA: gets them in motion.
Ick …
17: IN-STEP
The little dears” to “Ulster” (PETS-NI) back = INSTEP = the army must keep (IN STEP).
22: SLEEVE
The arm-y cover.
24: SC-RAM
It makes “counsel” (SC) sheepish (RAM) = SCRAM: to be ordered out like this.
27: LOT
He was good (LOT) but there were not a LOT like him.
Clue of the Day!
28: PIECE-MEAL
It may be eaten BIT by BIT.
31: EASEL
Sort of “lease” = EASEL: ARTISTIC
32: ART-IST-IC
Are you (ART) to “sit” (IST) I see (IC) = ARTISTIC.
Something like that …
33: TENNER
How high he sounds (TENOR) sounds = TENNER: just note.
34: EARL-Y AGE
What a noble (EARL) points to EARLY AGE: youth this seems.
Again, something like that …
35: AG(REE)S
There’s “gas” (AG-S) all around “the Lough” (REE) = AGREES: yes.

Down
1: COLD FEET
How a frosty morning make pedestrians (COLD FEET) nervous (COLD FEET).
Nice one …
2: UNTENDED
Not looked after, this.
3: CLOSE CALL
This was almost disastrous (CLOSE CALL) not a “trunk” call (CLOSE CALL).
Also very nice, and quaint to boot …
5: O(DO)UR
In “our” (O-UR) act (DO) = ODOUR: way to get up one’s nose.
6: PAT-IO
Patrick (PAT) X (IO) is = PATIO: an outsider.
7: I-SO-BAR
Thus I forbid (I SO BAR) = ISOBAR: the pressure to be same all along there.
8: EVE-NED
She (EVE) with “him” (NED) = EVENED: that’s how she got things level.
11: S(CRIB)E
There’s place for the baby (-CRIB-) “in” the answer = SCRIBE: one for the LETTER.
14: BIT
Not all (BIT) toothy it was, ‘took a bite’ (BIT).
18: S(HELL)S
In “the ship” (S-S) so horrible (HELL) for = SHELLS: them so hard.
19: EASTER EGG
Laid for the end of Lent (“a fast finish”).
20: PRESENCE
What may be given (PRESENTS) sounds like = PRESENCE: those that are all there.
21: IMP-LORES
Fairy tales (IMP LORES) for = IMPLORES: how one begs.
Excellent …
23: ‘ELM
For a steer, ‘helm’, unaspirated (‘ELM) = ELM: wood (“would” sound).
25: OP-I-ATE
The work (OP) I have eaten (I ATE) = OPIATE: makes me drop off.
26: LETTER
29: ESSAY
What the SCRIBE may produce (ESSAY) try (ESSAY).
30: E-KING
The oriental monarch (E KING) this gets “out” after (OUT) = EKING OUT: making things last.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: CLUTCH
4: LOW PRICE
9: LOT-ION
10: POST-P-ONE
12: FENCE
13: CARBON-ATE
15: CAR
16: EN(‘EM)A
17: IN-STEP
22: SLEEVE
24: SC-RAM
27: LOT
28: PIECE-MEAL
31: EASEL
32: ART-IST-IC
33: TENNER
34: EARL-Y AGE
35: AG(REE)S

Down
1: COLD FEET
2: UNTENDED
3: CLOSE CALL
5: O(DO)UR
6: PAT-IO
7: I-SO-BAR
8: EVE-NED
11: S(CRIB)E
14: BIT
18: S(HELL)S
19: EASTER EGG
20: PRESENCE
21: IMP-LORES
23: ‘ELM
25: OP-I-ATE
26: LETTER
29: ESSAY
30: E-KING

Answers to Crosaire No: 14595 - 11 Oct 11, Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
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I had a nice little run going there, but it all came to a crashing halt today. Admittedly, I am in a bit of a rush this evening, but that’s really only an excuse. I just wasn’t going to finish this one. I had nothing for METTLE, LITTLE MEN, nor PRINCELET, and to add insult to injury I put in INTENT instead of INTEND. I hope ye all fare better than me. Back to the old familiar territory of r0ow.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: AS-CRIB-ING
As (AS) for the baby (CRIB) “gin” may be the end of it = ASCRIBING.
Hmm …
9: H(ON)OUR
In “an hour” (H-OUR) is “on” (ON) = HONOUR: one’s good name.
Good one …
10: I’M-PROVING
I am (I’M) showing how (PROVING) = IMPROVING: how much better I am.
11: S(AM)BAS
In the “bass” (S-BAS) am (AM) = SAMBAS: dances.
12: P-RE-TENDER
Soft one sounds (P) re (RE) how soft (TENDER) = PRETENDER: one claims.
Clue of the Day!
13: DUBLIN
Makin’ it a pair (DOUBLIN’) by the sound of it = DUBLIN: in Eire.
An oldie but goody …
17: ANT
From “this” (ANT) with “her” help (HER) = ANTHER: one may get pollen from this.
19: LATER-A-L
By and by (LATER) a half-century (A-L) = LATERAL: on the side.
20: OVERSEE
Abroad (OVER SEA) by the sound of it = OVERSEE: that’s for the foreman to do.
21: BET
This laid on a horse (BET) wee N (WEEN) = BETWEEN.
Another hmm …
23: INTEND
It’s meant (INTEND) to be mean (INTEND).
Hmming all over the place today …
27: OBJECT-I-ON
The thing (OBJECT) with “one on” the end (I ON) = OBJECTION: don’t like.
28: VESTED
This may have an interest in (VESTED) having underclothing (VESTED).
29: LITTLE MEN
There’s a poem called “The Fairies” by William Allingham that has the lines, “We daren't go a-hunting, For fear of little men”. It’s new to me though …
30: I’M-AGES
How long I’ve been (I’M AGES) = IMAGES: just picture.
Another oldie but goody …
31: DETER-MINE
Put off (DETER) my one (MINE) = DETERMINE: resolve to.

Down
2: SOM(BR)E
There’s “some” here (SOM-E) about “my little brother” (BR) to make him = SOMBRE: melancholy.
3: RA-RITY
An Academician (RA) “I try” (RITY) to be = RARITY: unusual.
4: BO-VINE
Clinging (-VINE) is the “last” part of the answer = BOVINE: beastly.
5: NAN-KEEN
Is “she enthusiastic” (NAN KEEN) for = NANKEEN: such fine stuff.
Nankeen is a pale, yellowish cloth, and an answer that turned up in the very first Crosaire puzzle ever published, back on 13 March 1943 …
6: NOT AMUSED
7: DOUBTLESS
8: PRESENT-ED
The present (PRESENT) editor (ED) = PRESENTED: introduced, was given.
14: ALL IN VAIN
“V(all)ain” is ALL written IN VAIN = ALL IN VAIN: no good.
15: STATES-MAN
Says he (STATES MAN) = STATESMAN = he’s from the USA (STATES-MAN).
16: PRINCE-LET
“Types” “the hindrance” (PRINTS LET) by the sound of it = PRINCELET: a little royalty.
A “princelet” is a subordinate prince, I just discovered ...
17: ALB
A white ALB gets worn in Masses.
18: TOT
Add up (TOT) to one little one (TOT).
22: EBB TIDE
Gets knotted, sounds like “tied”, sounds like (TIDE) is the “last” part of the answer = EBB TIDE.
Yet another hmm from me …
24: METTLE
It won’t be lead (METAL) which sounds like = METTLE: some would give it spirit.
25: STREAM
“Ma rest”, an anagram = STREAM: flow here.
26: POTEEN

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: AS-CRIB-ING
9: H(ON)OUR
10: I’M-PROVING
11: S(AM)BAS
12: P-RE-TENDER
13: DUBLIN
17: ANT
19: LATER-A-L
20: OVERSEE
21: BET
23: INTEND
27: OBJECT-I-ON
28: VESTED
29: LITTLE MEN
30: I’M-AGES
31: DETER-MINE

Down
2: SOM(BR)E
3: RA-RITY
4: BO-VINE
5: NAN-KEEN
6: NOT AMUSED
7: DOUBTLESS
8: PRESENT-ED
14: ALL IN VAIN
15: STATES-MAN
16: PRINCE-LET
17: ALB
18: TOT
22: EBB TIDE
24: METTLE
25: STREAM
26: POTEEN

Answers to Crosaire No: 14594 - 10 Oct 11, Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:21:00 +0000

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Today’s puzzle put up a bit of a fight, worrying me a little after the first pass through the clues as I had a lot of blanks in the grid. But the missing answers fell steadily, until I got down to my last two which took a little longer and a few bowls of alphabet soup. First of the two stragglers to fall was TOASTING, which didn’t really help me much with the other, so I took quite a little while to work out PENNANTS for the finish. r7ow in 13m 37s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
8: CONTRACT
Get smaller (CONTRACT) with agreement (CONTRACT).
9: TRACES
Indications (TRACES) of harness for horses (TRACES).
We learned all about TRACE as the part of a harness in a Look-Up of the Day in January of this year ...
10: CAME-RA
Arrived (CAME) with “the artist” (RA) = CAMERA: to snap this, and “time” (-ERA) is the “last” part of the answer.
11: TOASTING
Getting burnt (TOASTING) for the good of your health (TOASTING).
12: MAN-TRA
He (MAN) gets back the “art” (TRA) = MANTRA: of the Hindu.
We learned a little bit about mantras in a Look-Up of the Day in January of this year …
13: OINTMENT
15: CAN’T
Not able (CAN’T) = CANT: to be so insincere.
A CANT is monotonous talk, filled with insincerity, as we’ve seen before …
17: CANDLES
Little light and all wicked (with a wick).
An oldie but goody …
19: C-OLDEST
At “a century” (C) the very aged (OLDEST) are = COLDEST: very chilly.
22: KOHL
Fuel (COAL) sounds like = KOHL: to darken the eyes.
“Kohl” is an ancient eye cosmetic, I just learned …
24: F(L)ATTEST
To be very over weight (F-ATTEST) about “fifty” (L) = FLATTEST: mostly disinclined, perhaps.
27: EXT(R)AS
In “taxes” (EXT-AS) are (R) = EXTRAS: but never stars.
29: COCKATOO
A bird or two (COCK OR TWO) sounds like = COCKATOO: only one bird.
30: NINETY
“E” with a “tiny N”, an anagram = NINETY: less than a century.
31: PRI(N)CE
What it costs (PRI-CE) around “the North” (N) = PRINCE = sounds like PRINTS (“copies”).
Hmm …
32: A-BETTING
It’s “a gamble”, it seems (A BETTING) = ABETTING: to be an accomplice.

Down
1: SON-AT-A
Your man (SON) at a (AT A) = SONATA: bit of music.
2: A-TT-ESTED
A teetotaller (A TT) with his “steed” (ESTED) = ATTESTED: witness.
3: CAR-A-PACE
For a motoring (CAR) at “a speed” (A PACE) = CARAPACE: for a tortoise.
The carapace is the dorsal section of the shell of a number of animals, from a shrimp to a tortoise, and a Look-up of the Day way back in April of 2009 …
4: STATION
5: ST-RAIN
The “street” (ST) with “a shower” (RAIN) = STRAIN: get the dirt out.
6: BANTAM
Not much that’s fowl (“foul”, by the sound of it).
A bantam is a small breed of fowl, as we’ve seen before ...
7: PENNANTS
Punishment (PENANCE) sound = PENNANTS: they are lengthy.
14: ‘ITCH
A “hold-up” (HITCH) would be for the Cockney (‘ITCH) = ITCH: how irritating.
Clue of the Day!
16: ASKS
After “tea” (T) what one is looking for (ASKS) = TASKS: such jobs.
18: ALL FOURS
20: O-LEANDER
O (O) channel swimmer (LEANDER) for = OLEANDER: a blooming.
In the Greek myth of Hero and Leander, Leander would swim across a strait to see Hero whom he loved, until one night he drowned in a storm. New to me …
21: DETONATED
23: OT-TO-MAN
“To” both ways (OT-TO) to get “him” (MAN) = OTTOMAN: lying.
25: T(OK)ENS
In “XXX” (T-ENS) all right (OK) to be = TOKENS: given.
Nice one …
26: EN-TREE
Leaves on this (-TREE) is the “end of” the answer = ENTREE: of course, at a meal.
28: ACTING
No EXTRAS would be doing this in the lead.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
8: CONTRACT
9: TRACES
10: CAME-RA
11: TOASTING
12: MAN-TRA
13: OINTMENT
15: CAN’T
17: CANDLES
19: C-OLDEST
22: KOHL
24: F(L)ATTEST
27: EXT(R)AS
29: COCKATOO
30: NINETY
31: PRI(N)CE
32: A-BETTING

Down
1: SON-AT-A
2: A-TT-ESTED
3: CAR-A-PACE
4: STATION
5: ST-RAIN
6: BANTAM
7: PENNANTS
14: ‘ITCH
16: ASKS
18: ALL FOURS
20: O-LEANDER
21: DETONATED
23: OT-TO-MAN
25: T(OK)ENS
26: EN-TREE
28: ACTING

Answers to Crosaire No: 14593 - 8 Oct 11, Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 00:24:00 +0000

I am afraid that I had to skip the WEB Crossword again this week. Apologies to all of you who print it out and solve it on a regular basis. I will have crosswords available by the end of the month though, I promise!

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A Sweep of the Week! It has been a long time since I’ve been able to report that, I can tell you. Today’s puzzle wasn’t too hard, I thought. The BELL theme unveiled itself very early, but the themed answers took a while to unravel completely. Last answer in for me was SER-VILE down in the southeast, for r6ow in 10m 25s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: PICK BLUEBELLS
10: ONE-ROUS
Single (ONE) and “sour” (ROUS) = ONEROUS: heavy.
11: ENGLISH
What this (clue is written) in.
Nice one …
12: LEAD
It’s a weighty matter (LEAD) to be in charge (LEAD).
Also nice …
13: RE-CUR
What “about the poor brute”? (RE CUR) = RECUR: it will happen again.
15: BULB
Make light of it (BULB) it will grow (BULB).
17: ROT
The hill (TOR) back up = ROT: nonsense.
19: DE(SIR)E
In “the river” (DE-E) the knight (SIR) = DESIRE: want.
21: LINEAL
“E” is about “all in”, an anagram = LINEAL: for his ancestors.
22: BASTI-ON
“I stab” (BASTI) on (ON) = BASTION: this for fortification.
23: HIT-HER
Raise your hand to a lady (HIT HER) = HITHER: come here.
25: WIN-NOW
Come first at once (WIN NOW) = WINNOW: cut out the chaff.
Nice too …
27: S-UP
The South (S) raised (UP) = SUP: what is the matter?
Sup, yo!! Clue of the Day!
29: BOOT
To (TO) this on foot (BOOT) = TO BOOT: too.
30: M(ERR)Y
In “my” (M-Y) way to do wrong (ERR) I’m = MERRY: happy.
31: SPIT
Out of your mouth (SPIT) a living likeness is so dead (SPIT).
34: LENT-I(L)S
A fast time (LENT) “is” about “fifty” [I(L)S] = LENTILS: if they’re seedy.
35: SER-VILE
So horrible (-VILE) is the “last” part of the answer = SERVILE: fawning.
36: BELLOWING BULL

Down
2: ICE-CAPS
3: KNOT
I am not sure why we have “sounds as if” in the clue:
It’s tied (KNOT) at the speed of the tide (KNOT).
4: LE(SS)ER
A bad look (LE-ER) about “the ship” (SS) = LESSER: not so much.
5: EKE OUT
“Also” of old (EKE) not in (OUT) = EKE OUT: to make it last longer.
“Eke” is an archaic term for “also”, I just discovered …
6: EGGS
A clutch is a set of eggs being incubated by the one bird …
7: LEI-SURE
Get it in the neck (LEI) for “certain” (SURE) = LEISURE: if you’re doing nothing.
8: TOLLED THE BELL
What the sexton “recounted to the one he was ringing” (TOLD THE BELL) sounds like = TOLLED THE BELL.
9: THE BELL-WETHER
A bellwether is an indicator of the future, and a wether is a castrated ram, as we saw in a Look-Up of the Day back in April of 2009 …
14: C-ON-TOUR
A hundred (C) travelling (ON TOUR) = CONTOUR: on the map.
An oldie but goody …
16: OR-BED
Or (OR) for lying (BED) = ORBED: rounded.
18: FIN-IS
On a fish (FIN) is (IS) = FINIS: at last.
“Finis” means the end, from the Latin …
20: EAR
Goes on a-head for the sound of it.
21: LOW
What BELLOWING BULL has to do.
24: TR-OUNCE
Lightly (-OUNCE) is the “last” part of the answer = TROUNCE: beat soundly.
26: N(UPT)IAL
In the “nail” (N-IAL) “put” it (UPT) = NUPTIAL: for marriage.
27: SEESAW
In sight (SEE) both in sight (SAW) = SEESAW: ones ups and downs.
28: PRI-SON
Crooked “rip” (PRI) of “a boy” (SON) = PRISON: where a crook(ed) ought to be.
32: TILL
Such time as (TILL) there’s money in it (TILL).
33: GRUB
Insect (GRUB) food (GRUB).

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: PICK BLUEBELLS
10: ONE-ROUS
11: ENGLISH
12: LEAD
13: RE-CUR
15: BULB
17: ROT
19: DE(SIR)E
21: LINEAL
22: BASTI-ON
23: HIT-HER
25: WIN-NOW
27: S-UP
29: BOOT
30: M(ERR)Y
31: SPIT
34: LENT-I(L)S
35: SER-VILE
36: BELLOWING BULL

Down
2: ICE-CAPS
3: KNOT
4: LE(SS)ER
5: EKE OUT
6: EGGS
7: LEI-SURE
8: TOLLED THE BELL
9: THE BELL-WETHER
14: C-ON-TOUR
16: OR-BED
18: FIN-IS
20: EAR
21: LOW
24: TR-OUNCE
26: N(UPT)IAL
27: SEESAW
28: PRI-SON
32: TILL
33: GRUB

Answers to Crosaire No: 14592 - 7 Oct 11, Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:04:00 +0000

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I must admit to a feeling of calm before the storm, as I zipped through today’s puzzle and head into the weekend on 5-in-a-row, looking for the Sweep of the Week. The only real problem I had was with my last answer, and that was because I had to think carefully about the spelling of ASCENDANT (I almost put ASCENDENT). I took my time though, and stopped the clock. 8m 29s, and r5ow as I said.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: POLISH OFF
You need swallows to do this (POLISH OFF) and take the shine from it (POLISH OFF).
9: STEP IN
Ulster pets (NI PETS) back there = STEP IN: interfere with.
10: STATUTES
11: FOURTH
To come “out” (FORTH) by the sound of it = FOURTH: not the first.
12: SEEKER
14: IDOL
Does little for you (IDLE) by the sound of it = IDOL: the god that.
15: ESSEN
Has one the “sense”, an anagram = ESSEN: to be in Germany.
I had a somewhat sad story to tell about Essen during the war, in a Look-Up of the Day back in April of this year …
16: ASHORE
It’s a “hare, so”, an anagram = ASHORE: it’s not in the sea.
18: S-PRAYED
The South (S) got to its knees (PRAYED) = SPRAYED: when watered.
21: ASS-IS-TS
How silly it (ASS) is (IS) at the street, ‘st’, back (TS) = ASSISTS: for them.
24: E-ASTER
E (E) gets “a flower” (ASTER) = EASTER: after being Lent this.
26: HO(T)EL
In this “hole” (HO-EL) might you get a little “tea” (T) = HOTEL: if you’re staying there.
30: ROSE
Peace (ROSE) for one, got up (ROSE).
The "peace" rose is apparently the most famous garden rose of all time, as we’ve seen before …
31: OP-ENED
The work (OP) “need” (ENED) = OPENED: not be close for this.
32: DINNER
“No doubter” by the sound of it (no D-OUTER = D-INNER) = DINNER: could get this at HOTEL.
Complicated …
33: TO-GET-HER
Working to possess the one girl (TO GET HER) = TOGETHER: both.
An oldie by goody …
34: N(I-NET)Y
In “New York” initially (N-Y) I catch (I NET) = NINETY: a large number.
35: REHEARSAL
Practice for THEATRE.

Down
2: OUTLET
A vent (sounds like “event”).
3: INTAKE
‘Kent AI”, an anagram = INTAKE: the opposite of OUTLET.
4: H-ATERS
“Tears” (-ATERS) is the “end” of the answer = HATERS: not “like” people.
5: FAST-ING
Make it “quick” (FAST) “gin” (ING) = FASTING: when there’s not more of this, at EASTER.
6: S(TOOL)S
Into “the ship” (S-S) get the booty, ‘loot’, up (TOOL) and = STOOLS: sit on them.
7: SP-ARROWS
The postscript, ‘PS’, turns (SP) and “shoots them” (ARROWS) = SPARROWS: at the little birds.
8: IN THE EAST
11: FOALS
They, a little horse (sound “hoarse”).
13: ESPY
This might be see (“BC” sound).
17: ASCENDANT
The ASCENDANT is the point at which one’s birth constellation is rising in the east at the time of one’s birth, as we’ve seen before …
19: RE-SON-ANT
About (RE) the boy (SON) the insect (ANT) = RESONANT: may be heard.
20: ERR-OR
To do wrong (ERR) or (OR) = ERROR: it’s not right.
22: STEP
STEP IN begins = STEP: on the stairs.
23: THE-ATRE
The (THE) twisted “rate” (ATRE) = THEATRE: for REHEARSAL.
25: ERECTS
27: TO-GG-LE
To (TO) a horse (GG) “the” French (LE) = TOGGLE: will make it fast.
A toggle is a mechanical device, used on say a rope or chain to hold it fast, prevent it from slipping …
28: LETTER
Allow ‘er (LET ‘ER) by the sound of it = LETTER: to write this.
29: GENERA
Sort of (GENERA) get “fifty” more (L) to get = GENERAL: one in command.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: POLISH OFF
9: STEP IN
10: STATUTES
11: FOURTH
12: SEEKER
14: IDOL
15: ESSEN
16: ASHORE
18: S-PRAYED
21: ASS-IS-TS
24: E-ASTER
26: HO(T)EL
30: ROSE
31: OP-ENED
32: DINNER
33: TO-GET-HER
34: N(I-NET)Y
35: REHEARSAL

Down
2: OUTLET
3: INTAKE
4: H-ATERS
5: FAST-ING
6: S(TOOL)S
7: SP-ARROWS
8: IN THE EAST
11: FOALS
13: ESPY
17: ASCENDANT
19: RE-SON-ANT
20: ERR-OR
22: STEP
23: THE-ATRE
25: ERECTS
27: TO-GG-LE
28: LETTER
29: GENERA

Answers to Crosaire No: 14591 - 6 Oct 11, Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 02:11:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
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It was a relatively straightforward finish for me today. I had to think a little before slotting in my last answer, MESSENGERS, but other than that, smooth sailing! r4ow in 11m 08s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: NO LOVE LOST
Despite such dislike (NO LOVE LOST) as much affection as before, it seems (NO LOVE LOST).
A nice double definition clue …
6: SCAB
It’s hard to cover the wound (SCAB) caused by the strike, perhaps (SCAB).
10: S(PIE)S
In “the ship” (S-S) them crusty (PIES) = SPIES: their hidden work.
11: UNVEILING
Disc-losing this.
12: A-GAR-A-GAR
A fish (A GAR) a fish (A GAR) coming from = AGAR-AGAR: the seaweed.
Agar (aka as agar-agar) has many uses, including as a laxative (!), as we've seen before …
13: CID-’ER
Do “the detectives” (CID) with ‘er (ER) = CIDER: get drunk.
Nice one …
15: EG(O-IS)TS
“Gets” confused (EG-TS) about “nothing, is” (O IS) what makes = EGOISTS: them so selfish.
17: L(EVER)ET
Allow this (L-ET) about “always” (EVER) = LEVERET: so little hare (“hair”, by the sound of it).
19: ENNOBLE
She “good” enough, ‘bonne’, turns (ENNOB) with “the” French = ENNOBLE: to give it a title.
Very nice use of BONNE …
21: FUR-NACE
With “so much hair” (FUR) the “cane”gets twisted (NACE) = FURNACE: in the fire.
22: VI-SIT
Six (VI) to take the chair (SIT) = VISIT: call on.
Clue of the Day!
24: CATERERS
27: INTE-GRATE
The fire there (-GRATE) is the “last” part of the answer = INTEGRATE: make this into a whole.
28: SIN-CE
Wrongdoing (SIN-) “starts” the answer = SINCE: because = and incorporated (-INC-) is also “inside” the answer.
29: SIN-G
Be musical (SING) at the double (SING) = SING SING: a wrongdoer may get there.
Sing Sing is the nickname of the famous prison in Ossining, not far from New York City, “up the river” Hudson.
30: MESSENGERS
I suppose their job is to “carry” messages “onward”.

Down
1: NOS-E
He, ‘son’, come up (NOS) to “the East” (E) = NOSE: on the face of it.
2: LYING DOWN
A false county (LYING DOWN) to be = LYING DOWN: prone.
3: VISOR
The super (SUPER) kind, over the eyes (VISOR) = SUPERVISOR: would keep an eye on you.
4: LOUNGES
If one is lazy (LOUNGES) they have room for one (LOUNGES).
5: S(EVER)AL
In “one girl” (S-AL) always (EVER) and = SEVERAL: more than one.
7: CHI(L)D
Rebuked (CHI-D) about “fifty” (L) = CHILD: the young like this one.
“Chid” is a variant of “chided”, I just discovered …
8: BIG BROTHER
One watcher, from Or-well (BIG BROTHER) to a largely relative extent (BIG BROTHER).
9: DISC-OVER
It’s round (DISC) on top (OVER) = DISCOVER: thus one might realise.
14: SEVEN VEILS
Dance by numbers in the way of UNVEILING.
16: SABOT-AGE
Is that how old the clog is (SABOT AGE) = SABOTAGE: break it up.
18: REAR-RANGE
Back there (REAR) the mountains (RANGE) = REARRANGE: change the order of.
20: ENCLAVE
Thus might “N leave C”, an anagram = ENCLAVE: an isolated position.
21: FITNESS
Suitability (FITNESS) to be following training (FITNESS).
23: SAT-IN
By the end of the week (SAT) to be at home (IN) = SATIN: it’s all very fine.
Very nice …
25: RE-SIN
Not to be a first offender (RE-SIN) can be = RESIN: a sticky matter.
Lovely surface reading …
26: LESS
Never more (LESS) get “on” (ON) = LESSON: what you get in school.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: NO LOVE LOST
6: SCAB
10: S(PIE)S
11: UNVEILING
12: A-GAR-A-GAR
13: CID-’ER
15: EG(O-IS)TS
17: L(EVER)ET
19: ENNOBLE
21: FUR-NACE
22: VI-SIT
24: CATERERS
27: INTE-GRATE
28: SIN-CE
29: SIN-G
30: MESSENGERS

Down
1: NOS-E
2: LYING DOWN
3: VISOR
4: LOUNGES
5: S(EVER)AL
7: CHI(L)D
8: BIG BROTHER
9: DISC-OVER
14: SEVEN VEILS
16: SABOT-AGE
18: REAR-RANGE
20: ENCLAVE
21: FITNESS
23: SAT-IN
25: RE-SIN
26: LESS

Answers to Crosaire No: 14590 - 5 Oct 11, Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:48:00 +0000

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After a couple of lengthy solving times, I managed a speedy finish today. I didn’t really hit any bumps in the road until I got down to my last answer, but I just guessed at THE ASHES and the clock stopped for me. I am still thinking about that clue, so hopefully something will come to me as write up the other explanations! r3ow in 9m 28s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: TURN-IP
To get “pi” you TURN the letters PI = TURNIP: the root.
Clue of the Day!
4: BUS-INESS
A bus (BUS-) is the “start” of the answer = BUSINESS: work.
9: ROT-ATE
Decay (ROT) swallowed (ATE) = ROTATE: this if you get round to it.
10: DI-STRESS
“I’d” turn (DI) to “strain” (STRESS) and = DISTRESS; sorrow.
An oldie but goody …
12: AL(IV)E
In “the ale” (AL-E) four (IV) = ALIVE: quick.
13: THE PRI(N)CE
The price (THE PRI-CE) about “the North” (N) = THE PRINCE: of royalty.
15: ART
“Are” you so old (ART) and crafty (ART).
16: I-DEAL
I do BUSINESS (I DEAL) = IDEAL: in a perfect way.
17: IRONED
22: ASS-ENT
It’s “silly” (ASS) to have got “ten” mixed (ENT) = ASSENT: yes.
24: A(WAS)H
Ah (A-H) that about “did be” (WAS) = AWASH: at water level.
Very nice …
27: SUN
M-on after this (SUN) and is shining (SUN).
28: D-ALLIANCE
Marriage (-ALLIANCE) is the “last” part of the answer = DALLIANCE: playing around.
31: AN-GEL
A (AN) “leg” up, at last (GEL) to get = ANGEL: how heavenly.
32: ITE-RATED
“Tie” in a knot (ITE) what is “reckoned” (RATED) = ITERATED: to be repeated.
33: FIN(IT)E
What’s “grand” (FIN-E) about “it” (IT) = FINITE: there’s an end to.
Another oldie but goody …
34: THE ASHES
I will need help with this one, as I don’t get the "rests" reference. It might be a reference to the bails that “rest” on the stumps that were burned to create cricket’s “the Ashes”? Or, after things have burned, the “rest’s” just the ashes?
UPDATE: Donal (below) suggests that there is a typo and "rests" should read "tests":
There are (cricket) tests for (THE ASHES) what's burned (THE ASHES).
35: INTERS
Buries (“berries”, by the sound of it) this.

Down
1: TAR-TAR-IC
Pitch (TAR) twice (TAR) I see (IC) for = TARTARIC: acid.
A lovely clue for us chemists, and you chefs out there …
2: RE(TAIN)ED
In the “rush” (RE-ED) “ain’t” (TAIN) = RETAINED: kept.
3: IN T(HE ALP)S
Where is there an anagram of “a help” (HEALP)? There! IN T(HE ALP)S = IN THE ALPS: on high.
5: UNIT-E
One E (UNIT E) = UNITE: make as one.
6: INTER
“I rent”, an anagram = INTER: one of INTERS.
7: EXEUNT
They leave the stage (EXEUNT) as they left in Rome (EXEUNT).
Exeunt is the “stage” direction for everyone to leave, as we saw in a Look-up of the Day back in March of last year …
8: S(I)STER
In the tangled “tress” (S-STER) “one” is (I) = SISTER: relatively.
11: ATTIRE
On the wheel (A TYRE) by the sound of it = ATTIRE: dress this.
14: PAN
Little rest (NAP) is up = PAN: the god.
18: OUT-SET
Not in (OUT) place (SET) to give one = OUTSET: a start.
19: EMANA-TION
Called, ‘a name’, up (EMANA) “into” (TION) = EMANATION: a coming out.
20: SANG-U-IN-E
Was singing (SANG) to “you” (U) in E (IN E) = SANGUINE: in a cool way.
Very nice too …
21: SHELTERS
They give c-over them.
23: SEA
B (sounds like “be”) is before C, sounds like = SEA: how wet!
25: A-DR-I-FT
A doctor (A DR) is over “one foot” (I FT) = ADRIFT: without power.
26: SLEEVE
29: I’M-A-MS
“I am” starting (I’M) a manuscript (A MS) for = IMAMS: them Muslim.
30: NI(E)CE
It’s “so pleasant” (NI-CE) around “the East” (E) for = NIECE: her.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: TURN-IP
4: BUS-INESS
9: ROT-ATE
10: DI-STRESS
12: AL(IV)E
13: THE PRI(N)CE
15: ART
16: I-DEAL
17: IRONED
22: ASS-ENT
24: A(WAS)H
27: SUN
28: D-ALLIANCE
31: AN-GEL
32: ITE-RATED
33: FIN(IT)E
34: THE ASHES
35: INTERS

Down
1: TAR-TAR-IC
2: RE(TAIN)ED
3: IN T(HE ALP)S
5: UNIT-E
6: INTER
7: EXEUNT
8: S(I)STER
11: ATTIRE
14: PAN
18: OUT-SET
19: EMANA-TION
20: SANG-U-IN-E
21: SHELTERS
23: SEA
25: A-DR-I-FT
26: SLEEVE
29: I’M-A-MS
30: NI(E)CE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14589 - 4 Oct 11, Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 01:29:00 +0000

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This was another puzzle that fought me the whole way home, although some of the problems I saw were in my own head as opposed in the crossword itself. I was left with five answers missing in the end, scattered all round the grid. First to fall was INFLUENZA, which was tough because Mr. C didn’t tell us it was a homophone clue, but it’s easy to unravel once you figure that out. Then came PROSPECTS, which I needed to solve BE-A-TEN. I can’t think why BEATEN took me so long! Second last was SERGE-ANTS, kicking myself over that one. That gave me the letters I needed to come up with another hidden homophone answer, IGNORE. That one took me a while, clocking up my r2ow in 26m 39s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: INFLUENZA
“It came flying in” and “finishes a” (IN FLEW - ENDS A) sounds like = INFLUENZA: thing I’m sick of.
9: KEEP ON
No glance (NO PEEK) backward = KEEP ON: don’t stop.
10: SA(MAR-I)TAN
In “Satan” (SA-TAN) “mar one” (MAR-I) and it’s all for = SAMARITAN: the good.
11: IGNORE
“Not two, no” sounds like (NOT TO KNOW) = IGNORE.
12: S-ELECTION
Southern (S) voting (ELECTION) for = SELECTION: choice.
13: PA’S-T IT
“Dad’s little bird” (PA’S TIT) is = PAST IT: too old for it.
17: ASS
Silly enough (ASS) to be doubled (ASS) in (IN) = ASSASSIN: a killing way.
19: REALISE
One may actually see with them (REAL EYES) by the sound of it = REALISE: come to know.
20: OUTLOOK
View (OUTLOOK) for the future (OUTLOOK).
21: TAN
Sunburn (TAN) for this “gent” (GENT) = TANGENT.
Hmm …
23: IN-D(EE)D
To “ease”, sounds like E’s, are where? There! IN D(EE)D = INDEED: it’s really.
27: PROSPECTS
Views (PROSPECTS) and looks for a mineral (PROSPECTS).
Nice double-definition clue …
28: HECTIC
F-ever so like this.
29: IN-TENT-ION
Under canvas (IN-TENT-) is the “start” of the answer = INTENTION: it’s mean.
30: KIPPER
Being pickled (KIPPER) one is having a doze (KIPPER).
31: MESS-ENGER
Confusion (MESS) of “green” (ENGER) = MESSENGER: one brings word.

Down
2: N(EAR)ED
Edward (N-ED) about “a sound organ” (EAR) = NEARED: getting close.
3: LOADED
The car-go on board.
4: E(X-IS)TS
In the crooked “set” (E-TS) “ten is” (X IS) = EXISTS: is.
5: ZE(A-LO)US
In “Zeus” (ZE-US) lo, a (LO-A) = ZEALOUS: a hard worker.
6: SERGE-ANTS
Material (SERGE) insects (ANTS) = SERGEANTS: with stripes.
Tight …
7: AP-PORTION
“Pa” gets back (AP) with “a little bit” (PORTION) = APPORTION: what they give him .
8: UNDER-TAKE
Not to help oneself too much (UNDER TAKE) = UNDERTAKE: promise.
14: ART-I-CHOKE
Arthur (ART) that’s stuck in my throat (I CHOKE) = ARTICHOKE: some vegetable.
Clue of the Day!
15: L(AND)SCAPE
In “places” (L-SCAPE) and (AND) it’s = LANDSCAPE: view.
Also tight ...
16: F-I’VE-MILES
After the forty, by the sound of it, ‘forte’ (F) I have (I’VE) a twisted “smile” (MILES) for = FIVE MILES: long.
17: AET
A cuppa (TEA) mixed = AET: as of old.
AET is "short" for AETAT, meaning 'at the age of', as saw in a Look-Up of the Day back in September 2009 …
18: SON
“Numbers” in short (NOS) wrong = SON: the child.
22: AR(RANG)E
Are (AR-E) about “to have rung” (RANG) = ARRANGE: fix.
24: AS-SETS
In the way of (AS) collections (SETS) = ASSETS: they’re all to the good.
25: BE-A-TEN
Might this “be an X” (BE A TEN) = BEATEN: not won (“one”, by the sound of it).
26: STROKE
The oarsman (STROKE) may get a heart attack (STROKE).
Well, a stroke affects the brain, not the heart, but I’m no doctor ...

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: INFLUENZA
9: KEEP ON
10: SA(MAR-I)TAN
11: IGNORE
12: S-ELECTION
13: PA’S-T IT
17: ASS
19: REALISE
20: OUTLOOK
21: TAN
23: IN-D(EE)D
27: PROSPECTS
28: HECTIC
29: IN-TENT-ION
30: KIPPER
31: MESS-ENGER

Down
2: N(EAR)ED
3: LOADED
4: E(X-IS)TS
5: ZE(A-LO)US
6: SERGE-ANTS
7: AP-PORTION
8: UNDER-TAKE
14: ART-I-CHOKE
15: L(AND)SCAPE
16: F-I’VE-MILES
17: AET
18: SON
22: AR(RANG)E
24: AS-SETS
25: BE-A-TEN
26: STROKE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14588 - 3 Oct 11, Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 02:44:00 +0000

Please join me in congratulating Matt (McDavey) on the birth of his new daughter a few days ago. He is off work at the moment teaching her how to do Crosaire ...

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Wow! This one fought me every step of the way, but I emerged victorious at the finish. So, I’d say I enjoyed this puzzle more than most, even though there were a few clues that I’d call a little “iffy”. Last in for me was T-RIVET, a word I only learned when I came to the US. “The Trivet House” was the first restaurant I ate in on my inaugural visit to America. I remember naively asking for a “shandy” to drink with my lunch, and I had to explain that it was a mixture of beer and lemonade. So they gave me Budweiser with lemonade made from freshly squeezed lemons and sweetened with sugar. We live and learn. r1ow in 18m 24s.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
8: RE-PAIRED
Getting married again (RE-PAIRED) = REPAIRED: mended things.
9: A-CHIN-G
A jaw (A-CHIN-) “starts” the answer = ACHING: sore.
10: BAR-DIC
To “the bar” (BAR) the detectives, ‘CID’, returned (DIC) = BARDIC: poetically.
11: IN T(HE SE)A
Seems “he’s e”! Where? There! IN T(HE SE)A = IN THE SEA: not ashore.
12: GEMINI
13: AILMENTS
15: OILS
Make things go smoothly (OILS) in a medium (OILS) sort of way.
17: BALL-IN-A
Get “round” (BALL) in a (IN A) = BALLINA: May-o there.
19: LA-STING
“The” French (LA) pain (STING) = LASTING: goes on a long time.
Nice ...
22: GLEN
Down there (GLEN) are “the ties” (TIES) = GLENTIES: of Donegal.
24: LEFT SHOE
27: C(I)TRUS
In the “crust” (C-TRUS) “one” is (I) = CITRUS: of the lemon.
29: BAD-IN-AGE
From “a naughty old man" (BAD IN AGE) = BADINAGE: the sort of joking.
“Badinage” is banter, humorous conversation, as we saw in a Look-Up of the Day back in August of 2009 …
30: SAL-VIA
Little Sarah (SAL) comes “by way of” (VIA) = SALVIA: a shrub.
SALVIA is usually known as common sage (which I grow) but it can refer to other more “trippy” plants too (which I don’t grow), as we’ve seen before …
31: RE-SENT
To be thus delivered again (RE-SENT) = RESENT: do not like this.
32: DU-RATION
The allowance (-RATION) is the “last” part of the answer = DURATION: this is how long it will last.

Down
1: DECADE
“Ten ears”, by the sound of it (TEN YEARS) = DECADE: time for this.
2: MAN-DRILL
Is he (MAN) a bore (DRILL) = MANDRILL: then monkey with it.
Nice enough …
3: TR-ACTION
Not still (ACTION) is the “last” part of the answer = TRACTION: a drawing.
4: ADMIRAL
Not “fleet of foot” for one, rather “fleet at sea”.
5: PA’S-TEL
Father’s (PA’S) “let” up (TEL) = PASTEL: just a shade.
Tight …
6: CHEESE
May be “made” up (EDAM) = CHEESE: in the dairy.
7: UNBEATEN
Always won (“one”, by the sound of it).
14: ISLE
I shall, 'I’ll', sounds (ISLE) in church, ‘aisle’, sounds (ISLE) with water around (ISLE).
16: I-AGO
One (I) since (AGO) = IAGO: one is such a playful villain.
Clue of the Day!
Iago is the bad guy in Shakespeare's "Othello" …
18: AVE-RAGES
Hail (AVE) to “the furies” (RAGES) = AVERAGES: they’re so mean.
20: ANCES-TRY
Could broken “canes” (ANCES) attempt (TRY) to make = ANCESTRY: a line for one.
Nice too …
21: TOTALITY
23: LEG-ENDS
Feet? (LEG ENDS) = LEGENDS: mythical.
An oldie but goody …
25: T-RIVET
Will make it fast (-RIVET) is the “last” part of the answer = TRIVET: having three feet.
A TRIVET is a three legged, metal stand with short feet on which one can place a hot dish on a table, as we saw in a Look-Up of the Day back in April of last year …
26: HEALTH
Well, it’s “good” (GOOD) to have this (HEALTH) = GOOD HEALTH: and get drunk.
28: UN-IS-ON
“One” in France (UN) willing (IS ON) = UNISON: sounds altogether.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
8: RE-PAIRED
9: A-CHIN-G
10: BAR-DIC
11: IN T(HE SE)A
12: GEMINI
13: AILMENTS
15: OILS
17: BALL-IN-A
19: LA-STING
22: GLEN
24: LEFT SHOE
27: C(I)TRUS
29: BAD-IN-AGE
30: SAL-VIA
31: RE-SENT
32: DU-RATION

Down
1: DECADE
2: MAN-DRILL
3: TR-ACTION
4: ADMIRAL
5: PA’S-TEL
6: CHEESE
7: UNBEATEN
14: ISLE
16: I-AGO
18: AVE-RAGES
20: ANCES-TRY
21: TOTALITY
23: LEG-ENDS
25: T-RIVET
26: HEALTH
28: UN-IS-ON

Answers to Crosaire No: 14587 - 1 Oct 11, Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:05:00 +0000

Apologies to everyone for my pseudo-absence for a couple days. I’m in one of those spells we all experience, where life gets away from you a bit. I’m behind on reading blog comments and will get to them shortly, I promise. I must also apologise for not having a WEB Crossword ready for this weekend. I usually get it wrapped up early in the week, but the real world crowded it out. Normal service will be resumed next weekend, I am sure.

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I failed to clear this one, missing two letters in two different answers. I had in GO MARK MY WORDS instead of DO MARK MY WORDS (which is a frustrating miss, I’d say). I also took a stab at SHE-A without really having a good justification, and of course that should have been THEA. Back to r0ow. I hope ye all fared better than me.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: MARK OF RESPECT
10: UTE(NSI)L
In a “lute” (UTE-L) “sin” (NSI) = UTENSIL: the implement.
11: ELEVA-TE
Start to “leave” (ELEVA) and then get “et” up (TE) = ELEVATE: get up.
12: SAIL
Set SAIL for a start at sea.
13: S-EVEN
“Odd” that it isn’t (-EVEN) is the “last” part of the answer = SEVEN: how odd that it isn’t EVEN.
15: ALTO
17: RE-D
About five hundred (RE D) her ring (HER-RING) would make = RED HERRING.
19: ITALIC
From Italy (ITAL-IC) = ITALIC: inclined to be a type.
Nice one …
21: MYS-ELF
Sprightly (-ELF) is the “last” part of the answer = MYSELF: I.
I am not sure what “sound like this” adds to the clue …
22: CAPITAL
Dublin (CAPITAL) is just fine (CAPITAL).
23: NOBLER
Better bred (“bread” by the sound of it).
25: POLISH
Was it this that made Chopin (POLISH, from Poland) shine (POLISH).
27: TOM
He (TOM) at the double (TOM) = TOM-TOM: beat it.
29: ARMS
They get to be hand-y in a fight.
30: C-ONES
By “the hundred” (C) singles (ONES) = CONES: the point of them.
31: BEAM
Broadly speaking (BEAM) they look happy (BEAM).
The BEAM is the broadest part of a ship …
34: KRISH-NA
“Shirk” (KRISH) “an” (NA) could be = KRISHNA: Hindu deity.
35: O-PEN AIR
O (O) write (PEN) the music (AIR) = OPEN AIR: outside.
36: DO MARK MY WORDS

Down
2: AM-ERICA
Call me heather (AM ERICA) = AMERICA: states there.
As we've seen before, it is a commonly held belief that heather and erica are the same thing botanically, but in fact, erica is another name for a different species called "heath" …
3: KISS
Salute (KISS) face to face (KISS).
4: FILTER
5: EVE-NED
She (EVE) with “him” (NED) = EVENED: has got smooth.
6: PEER
Look well (PEER) in a NOBLER way (PEER).
7: CHARLIE
He (CHARLIE) may be a proper CHARLIE and feel so silly.
8: QUESTION MARKS
Clue of the Day!
9: GET OFF THE MARK
14: VENISON
A joint of this is too deer (sounds “dear”).
16: V-ICES
They’re cold (-ICES) is the “last” part of the answer = VICES: they’re bad, they’re gripping.
18: P-YLON
“Only” (-YLON) is “the end of” the answer = PYLON: currently = sounds like (PILE ON) make a heap.
Clever enough …
20: CAR
This will go (CAR) nation (NATION) = CARNATION: blooming.
21: MAP
She (PAM) comes up = MAP: in the atlas.
24: BAMBINO
26: I(CELAN)D
I’d (I-D) get around a “clean” (CELAN) = ICELAND: cold place.
27: TO BACK
Reversal (TO BACK) or put your money on it (TO BACK).
28: M(EMOR)Y
In “my” (M-Y) there’s “more” (EMOR) = MEMORY: recollection of this.
32: THEA
I might need help with this one:
She (THEA-) is the start of the word THEATRE: a play there.
Is that it, or am I missing something obvious, as usual?
33: ZERO
O, that’s it! (ZERO) think nothing (ZERO) of it.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: MARK OF RESPECT
10: UTE(NSI)L
11: ELEVA-TE
12: SAIL
13: S-EVEN
15: ALTO
17: RE-D
19: ITALIC
21: MYS-ELF
22: CAPITAL
23: NOBLER
25: POLISH
27: TOM
29: ARMS
30: C-ONES
31: BEAM
34: KRISH-NA
35: O-PEN AIR
36: DO MARK MY WORDS

Down
2: AM-ERICA
3: KISS
4: FILTER
5: EVE-NED
6: PEER
7: CHARLIE
8: QUESTION MARKS
9: GET OFF THE MARK
14: VENISON
16: V-ICES
18: P-YLON
20: CAR
21: MAP
24: BAMBINO
26: I(CELAN)D
27: TO BACK
28: M(EMOR)Y
32: THEA
33: ZERO

Answers to Crosaire No: 14586 - 30 Sep 11, Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:33:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
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That wasn’t too, too tough I thought. It came down to four answers for me, two in the southeast and two in the northwest. Of the four, GADGET fell first allowing me finally spot WHINGERS. Then I had to come up with MINUTE in order to take a fairly confident stab at T-RUG. That stopped the clock for me, in 10m 33s. That’s my hat trick, r3ow.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: RE-ALI’S-TIC
About Ali’s twitch (RE ALI’S TIC) = REALISTIC: it seems genuine.
Very tight …
9: THE LEG
10: RE(SIDE)NT
In the middle of “the rent” (RE-NT) the “edge” (SIDE) is = RESIDENT: living there.
11: I’M-PAIR
My split personality (I’M PAIR) = IMPAIR: this will spoil.
12: MINUTE
It takes a short time (MINUTE) to get tiny and short (MINUTE).
14: G-ONE
The GI (G-ONE) is = GONE: left.
Clue of the Day!
15: PRONE
That’s LYING.
16: A(DD-IN)G
There’s “divine doctor in” (-DD-IN-) is “the inside” of the answer = ADDING: what’s more.
18: O-RANGES
Round (O) the mountains (RANGES) = ORANGES: the fruit, and “of the North”.
21: LE(NIEN)T
Let (LE-T) it be about 9, ‘nine’ (NIEN) = LENIENT: but not strictly speaking.
24: PI(N-IN)G
The inside of “the swine” (PI-G) is “the North in” (N-IN) = PINING: longing for.
26: LYING
15 across (PRONE) = LYING: truly, it’s not.
30: EAR-L
Way to get sound (EAR) before “fifty” (L) = EARL: a noble.
31: GEA-RED
It takes an “age” (GEA) to get “ruddy” (RED) = GEARED: as a car is.
32: SETTER
One may get dog-gedly red (SETTER) of a type (SETTER) of work.
33: WHINGERS
34: NET-HER
Catch (NET) the girl (HER) = NETHER: from below.
An oldie but goody …
35: AD-VENTURE
That father, ‘Da’, is back (AD) at an undertaking (VENTURE) = ADVENTURE: that’s exciting.

Down
2: E(MET-I)C
Came across one (-MET-I-) is “inside” the answer = EMETIC: enough to make one sick.
3: LAID UP
“Dial” is LAID written UP = LAID UP: if you’re sick.
4: STERE-O
The “steer” (STERE) needs “nothing” more (O) to make it = STEREO: sound all round.
5: IN-TEGER
In (IN) to “greet” (TEGER) = INTEGER: this in “a number” of ways.
6: SHAM-ED
The fake editor (SHAM ED) may be = SHAMED: made to blush.
7: ALL ALIKE
8: A-GG-REG-ATE
A horse Reginald consumed (A GG REG ATE) = AGGREGATE: all told.
Another oldie but goody …
11: I-NANE
I (I) get “Anne” confused (NANE) = INANE: in a silly way.
Tight enough …
13: T-RUG
Underfoot (-RUG) is the “last” part of the answer = TRUG: basketwork for the carrier.
A trug is an oval gardening basket, made from wide strips of wood, I just learned …
17: CO(M)PO-SING
[In a “coop” (CO-PO) the thousand (M) = COMPO] to “sing” at last (SING) = COMPOSING: making it.
19: ANNOTATE
It isn’t eight (A “NOT EIGHT”) sounds like = ANNOTATE: make a note of it.
20: ELGAR
“Glare” at, an anagram = ELGAR: one who did some COMPOSING.
22: NINE
Leo (LEO) could make so many (NINE) = LEONINE: regal in a beastly way.
23: ALL-OWING
Nothing yet paid for, it seems (ALL OWING) but = ALLOWING: with permission.
25: NEEDED
“Ted” is after getting “wan” (WAN-TED) = NEEDED.
27: I-GNITE
I (I) get a “tinge” of this (GNITE) but = IGNITE: make light of it.
28: GADGET
An “egg” in it for “a TD”, an anagram = GADGET: that yoke.
29: T-ERROR
It’s frightfully (T-ERROR) to take the top off this (-T) = ERROR: wrong.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: RE-ALI’S-TIC
9: THE LEG
10: RE(SIDE)NT
11: I’M-PAIR
12: MINUTE
14: G-ONE
15: PRONE
16: A(DD-IN)G
18: O-RANGES
21: LE(NIEN)T
24: PI(N-IN)G
26: LYING
30: EAR-L
31: GEA-RED
32: SETTER
33: WHINGERS
34: NET-HER
35: AD-VENTURE

Down
2: E(MET-I)C
3: LAID UP
4: STERE-O
5: IN-TEGER
6: SHAM-ED
7: ALL ALIKE
8: A-GG-REG-ATE
11: I-NANE
13: T-RUG
17: CO(M)PO-SING
19: ANNOTATE
20: ELGAR
22: NINE
23: ALL-OWING
25: NEEDED
27: I-GNITE
28: GADGET
29: T-ERROR

Answers to Crosaire No: 14585 - 29 Sep 11, Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:52:00 +0000

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I moved pretty quickly through today’s puzzle, getting down to my last clue in just under ten minutes, I think. Then I took almost five whole minutes to come up with BROWS! But the clock did stop, in 14m 17s, for r2ow.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: DOWN AND OUT
KO’d perhaps (DOWN AND OUT) and broke (DOWN AND OUT).
6: SHAM
False (SHAM) the rock (ROCK) = SHAMROCK: of Ireland.
10: BROWS
Feed on leaves (BROWSE) by the sound of it = BROWS: on the the face of it, eye (“I”, by the sound of it).
Something like that, I think, and “to browse” is to feed on shoots and leaves, I just learned …
11: THE IDEALS
They are not-ions, yet are quite perfect.
12: MUST-ERED
To start like MUST-ARD POT (MUST-) is the “start” of the answer = MUSTERED: gathered.
Again, I think it’s explained something like that …
13: E(X)TRA
“Tear” in bits (E-TRA) about “ten” (X) = EXTRA: more.
15: INN-ARDS
There’s a pub (INN) over there in Ulster (ARDS) for = INNARDS: your guts.
Nice enough …
17: DRESSED
Not barely (DRESSED) made ready for a meal (DRESSED).
19: DET-OURS
Might “Ted” return (DET) what belongs to us (OURS) = DETOURS: get around to.
21: ON-TAR-IO
On (ON) what’s on the road (TAR) with “ten” more (IO) = ONTARIO: Can-ada have.
22: RAP-I’D
Knock (RAP) I had (I’D) = RAPID: just a quick.
24: ALDER-MAN
A “man” of the “wood(s)” (ALDER-MAN) = ALDERMAN: is high in the town.
27: ELOCUTION
“O” what a “cute lion”, an anagram = ELOCUTION: in a manner of speaking.
28: ALIBI
That’ll PROVE that one was not all there.
29: STEP
Get “your animals” (PETS) back for = STEP: a walk.
30: AGREEMENTS

Down
1: DABS
Flat and fishy (DABS) fingerprints (DABS).
2: WHODUNNIT
3: AS-SET
Placed like this (AS SET) it’s all to the good (ASSET).
4: DOT-ARDS
The end of INN-ARDS (-ARDS) is “the end of” the answer = DOTARDS: aged parties.
I think that’s it …
5: UPENDED
7: HE-ART
Male craft (HE ART) = HEART: will beat, and is a suit (in a deck of cards).
An oldie but goody …
8: MUSTARD POT
9: ADHE-RENT
A broken “head” (ADHE) and the rest is “torn” (RENT) = ADHERENT: one of the following.
Clue of the Day!
14: WILDERNESS
16: ROUNDS UP
O, O! (ROUNDS) they’re “not down” (UP) = ROUNDS UP: to be MUSTERED.
18: SERRATION
20: S-HAVING
Is “the South” (S) in possession of (HAVING) = SHAVING: this on the face of it.
21: ORDINEE
23: P-ROVE
Piano (P) “over” (ROVE) = PROVE: what may make ALIBI was true.
25: REAR-M
Back (REAR) a thousand (M) = REARM: for further fighting.
An oldie by goody …
26: MISS
You won’t make a hit (MISS) with that girl (MISS).

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: DOWN AND OUT
6: SHAM
10: BROWS
11: THE IDEALS
12: MUST-ERED
13: E(X)TRA
15: INN-ARDS
17: DRESSED
19: DET-OURS
21: ON-TAR-IO
22: RAP-I’D
24: ALDER-MAN
27: ELOCUTION
28: ALIBI
29: STEP
30: AGREEMENTS

Down
1: DABS
2: WHODUNNIT
3: AS-SET
4: DOT-ARDS
5: UPENDED
7: HE-ART
8: MUSTARD POT
9: ADHE-RENT
14: WILDERNESS
16: ROUNDS UP
18: SERRATION
20: S-HAVING
21: ORDINEE
23: P-ROVE
25: REAR-M
26: MISS

Answers to Crosaire No: 14584 - 28 Sep 11, Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:12:00 +0000

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I picked myself after yesterday’s fall and am back in the saddle today. I couldn’t have done it
though without dragging MESSINES up from the dark recesses of my mind. I made the educated guess and then checked back in the blog to remind myself of the quite fascinating Look-Up it was back in September of last year. I was pretty quick today, stopping the clock in 10m 49s, for yet another r1ow.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: ST-ABLE
The saint (ST) can (ABLE) = STABLE: keep his steed there.
4: CARES-SES
Worries (CARES-) is the “first” part of the answer = CARESSES: what’s so touchingly loving.
9: HOARSE
What STABLE is for (HORSE) the sound of = HOARSE: not clear of the sound of.
10: I’M-PAIRED
I’ve got married (I’M PAIRED) and so I’m = IMPAIRED: spoilt.
12: LIMB-O
An arm or a leg (LIMB) “round” here (O) = LIMBO: nowhere is there.
Clue of the Day!
13: CON-STABLE
1 across (-STABLE) is the “last” part of the answer = CONSTABLE: painter, and one in (police) force.
15: NOT
It’s much heavier to carry (TON) backwards = NOT = KNOT: sounds like “NOT”, it could be faster at sea.
16: RINGS
The bell goes off (RINGS) on hand (RINGS).
17: ULSTER
The “rustle”, an anagram = ULSTER: of the North.
22: EX-I-LED
I went first (-I-LED) is the “last” part of the answer = EXILED: with no return ticket.
24: TENSE
“Now” is in the “present” TENSE.
27: ATE
One over seven (EIGHT) by the sound of it = ATE: took in.
28: SUCCULENT
“What to do with the sweet” “you made a loan of” (SUCK - YOU LENT) sounds like = SUCCULENT.
31: REINS
Wet enough (RAINS) sounds = REINS: to control horse (the sound of “HOARSE”).
32: EVEN-TIDE
Regular flow of the sea (EVEN TIDE) = EVENTIDE: of late in poetry.
33: S(TO)LEN
In the “lens” (S-LEN) to (TO) to get = STOLEN: pinched.
34: T-ANGLING
After “tea” (T) fishing (ANGLING) = TANGLING: getting mixed up in.
35: AS-IDES
Like (AS) the end of Caesar then (IDES) = ASIDES: said on the stage.

Down
1: SCHOLARS
They get informed in form (class).
2: A-L-ARMING
A fifty (A L) getting ready to fight (ARMING) = ALARMING: frightfully.
3: LESS-ON SIX
Not so much on (LESS ON) half a dozen (SIX) = LESSON SIX: for SCHOLARS.
5: AM-MON
Claims to be a Scots “man” (AM MON) = AMMON: a god of Egypt.
We kind of talked around Ammon, the Egyptian god, in a Look-Up of the Day about ammonites back in November of 2009 …
6: EX-ACT
The former (EX-) deed (ACT) to be = EXACT: precise.
7: S(CRIB)E
The baby in there (-CRIB-) is “in” the answer = SCRIBE: one writes.
8: S-IDLED
Never worked hard (-IDLED) is the “last” part of the answer = SIDLED: never went straight.
11: ACTUAL
“Cult” of the “AA”, an anagram = ACTUAL: the real.
14: SIT
“It’s” wrong = SIT: not-with-standing.
An oldie but goody …
18: SE-DATE
Time (-DATE) is the “last” part of the answer = SEDATE: so prim and proper.
19: ENTER-IT-IS
Come in (ENTER) it’s (IT IS) = ENTERITIS: ILL inside.
A very familiar oldie but goody …
20: UNTILLED
“Fall” with “Ow!” (FALL-OW) = UNTILLED.
21: MESS-IN-ES
There’s “confusion in” (MESS IN-) is the “top” of the answer = MESSINES: the ridge in Belgium.
Mesen (also MESSINES) is a village in West Flanders, the site of a major WWI battle, as we saw in a really fascinating Look-Up of the Day back in September of last year …
23: ILL
The matter with ENTERITIS = ILL: well, it’s not.
Something like that, I guess …
25: A-SCENT
A perfume (A SCENT) is = ASCENT: coming up from this.
26: SC-REEN
Counsel (SC) will never, ‘ne’er’, come back (REEN) = SCREEN: to the cinema.
29: UNTIL
The beginning of UNTIL-LED = UNTIL: such time as this.
30: END ON
END ON is the reverse of “at first”.
That’s the best I could come with for this one. Anyone?

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: ST-ABLE
4: CARES-SES
9: HOARSE
10: I’M-PAIRED
12: LIMB-O
13: CON-STABLE
15: NOT
16: RINGS
17: ULSTER
22: EX-I-LED
24: TENSE
27: ATE
28: SUCCULENT
31: REINS
32: EVEN-TIDE
33: S(TO)LEN
34: T-ANGLING
35: AS-IDES

Down
1: SCHOLARS
2: A-L-ARMING
3: LESS-ON SIX
5: AM-MON
6: EX-ACT
7: S(CRIB)E
8: S-IDLED
11: ACTUAL
14: SIT
18: SE-DATE
19: ENTER-IT-IS
20: UNTILLED
21: MESS-IN-ES
23: ILL
25: A-SCENT
26: SC-REEN
29: UNTIL
30: END ON

Answers to Crosaire No: 14583 - 27 Sep 11, Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 23:59:00 +0000

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Well, gosh darn it (said he politely). It was a disappointing miss for me today, as I really fought hard to clear the left side of the puzzle. The sad thing is that after a bloody battle to come up with all of those left-side answers, it was a one-letter miss on the right side that was my downfall. I put in GET A HOUSE instead of LET A HOUSE. So, back to the old familiar territory of r0ow.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: ABOMINATE
One explosive in eight (A BOMB IN EIGHT) the sound of = ABOMINATE: one may hate.
Clue of the Day!
9: RE-PAIR
There’s about (RE) two of them (PAIR) = REPAIR: to fix.
10: THE STRAND
The reference is to the old music hall song, “Let’s All Go Down the Stand (‘ave a banana) …”, an interesting Look-Up of the Day back in January of this year …
11: SALIVA
Sarah, I have something … (SAL I’VE A …) sounds as if = SALIVA: on my TONGUE.
12: ALLIGATOR
Like something of an old croc (sounds like “crock”).
13: TONGUE
Something on the “tip” of one’s TONGUE is “forgotten”.
17: PTO
It could be a “top”, an anagram = PTO: (please) turn-over.
19: RECE-I’VE
What “I’ve” (-IVE) is the “last” part of the answer = RECEIVE: get.
20: REST-ART
The remainder (REST) that’s “crafty” (ART) = RESTART: begin again.
21: NIB
23: C-LEVER
Hundred (C) to get the prize (LEVER) = CLEVER: smart enough.
Nice one …
27: A-TT-ENDING
A teetotal funeral (A TT ENDING) = ATTENDING: be at.
28: DET-AIN
“Ted” up (DET) on his “own” in Scotland (AIN) = DETAIN: may hold up.
29: IN THE REAR
30: L-IS-TEN
50 (L) = (IS) 10 (TEN) = LISTEN.
31: R(END-ERIN)G
Finish Ireland (-END-ERIN-) is “in” the answer = RENDERING: giving to.

Down
2: BE-HELD
So it couldn’t get away (BE HELD) = BEHELD: saw this.
3: MY-STIC
My (MY) cane, ‘stic-k’, is without end (STIC) = MYSTIC spirited.
Excellent clue!
4: NOR-MAN
Nothing human either (NOR MAN) = NORMAN: no Saxon (sounds like “sacks on”) here.
5: TEN FOOT
X (TEN) 12 in. (FOOT) = TEN FOOT: at length.
6: LET A HOUSE
It’s not for a seller (sounds as if “cellar”) to do this for a living.
7: RACING CAR
“For mule, a one” sounds like (FORMULA ONE) = RACING CAR: that’s fast.
Clever, if a bit vague …
8: AR(MA-MEN)TS
In the “star” (AR-TS) “Mother” and the “men” (MA-MEN) = ARMAMENTS: for a fight.
14: CROCODILE
Croc (sounds like an old “crock”).
15: SCIENTIST
There was a New-ton for one.
16: FIVE TIMES
V (FIVE) like this “Irish” one (TIMES) = FIVE TIMES.
17: PEN
That’s got NIB (PEN) shut up (PEN).
18: ORB
“I” sound (EYE) perhaps = ORB: so much of an all-rounder.
22: IN-TENSE
In (IN) a verbal manner (TENSE) = INTENSE: concentrated.
24: MET-HOD
One “came across” (MET) a brick carrier (HOD) = METHOD: the way.
An oldie but goody …
25: ADO-RER
What “to-do” (ADO) points to ADORER: this fan.
That’s the best I can do with this one. Anyone?
26: IN P(AI)N
Where is “A1”? There! IN P(AI)N = IN PAIN: hurting.

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: ABOMINATE
9: RE-PAIR
10: THE STRAND
11: SALIVA
12: ALLIGATOR
13: TONGUE
17: PTO
19: RECE-I’VE
20: REST-ART
21: NIB
23: C-LEVER
27: A-TT-ENDING
28: DET-AIN
29: IN THE REAR
30: L-IS-TEN
31: R(END-ERIN)G

Down
2: BE-HELD
3: MY-STIC
4: NOR-MAN
5: TEN FOOT
6: LET A HOUSE
7: RACING CAR
8: AR(MA-MEN)TS
14: CROCODILE
15: SCIENTIST
16: FIVE TIMES
17: PEN
18: ORB
22: IN-TENSE
24: MET-HOD
25: ADO-RER
26: IN P(AI)N

Answers to Crosaire No: 14582 - 26 Sep 11, Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:26:00 +0000

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Today’s puzzle was tricky enough, I thought. In order to colve it I had to back away from a number of answers that I’d written in (e.g. STROLLER for STROLLED, DISEASE for ILLNESS). I finished off in the northwest, with RE-ALLY, then KIM-O-NO and finally MA-LICE, all of which were nice clues I thought. It took me 14m 06s, to get to my r2ow and that optimistic start to the week.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
8: WANT-ONLY
Desire nothing more than this (WANT ONLY) = WANTONLY: but that excessively.
A very nice start …
9: ELEVEN
In-side (playing) football.
10: KIM-O-NO
By Kipling? (KIM) on the contrary (O NO) = KIMONO: in Japan.
Clue of the Day!
11: N(OISI)EST
In “the nest” (N-EST) [“is ten” (IS-IO back = OISI) and = NOISIEST: very sound there?
Also very nice …
12: RE-ALLY
About (RE) not one of one’s ENEMIES (ALLY) = REALLY: in truth.
And yet another nice one …
13: B(REED-IN)G
Rush in (-REED IN-) is “inside” the answer = BREEDING: for the family.
15: MAY-O
“Might” for the present (tense) (MAY) get “nothing” more (O) for = MAYO: the county.
17: SUNRISE
Not of late evening (“even” in poetry).
19: DISEASE
22: REED
Buck (DEER) up = REED: rush.
24: S(CALL)ION
In the Mills of the North (S-ION) visit (CALL) for = SCALLION: the onion.
Sion Mills is a village not far from Strabane. Never been there …
27: OTTERS
“To rest”, an anagram = OTTERS: they live in water.
29: SOLE-C-IS-M
The only (SOLE) 100 is 1000 (C IS M) = SOLECISM: bad mistake that.
A SOLECISM is a violation of etiquette. Of all people, I should know the meaning of this one …
30: A-WARD’S
A bit of the hospital’s for DISEASE (A WARD’S) for = AWARDS.
31: A HEART
One that beats (A HEART) in the blood suit (in a deck of cards) (A HEART).
32: EVENT-UAL
Happen (EVENT) is the “first” part of the answer = EVENTUAL: to be a final.

Down
1: MA-LICE
Mother (MA) gets “a lousy” (LICE) = MALICE: ill feeling.
2: ST-ROLLER
The street (ST) one to make smooth (ROLLER) = STROLLER: one is in no hurry.
3: ANTONY-MS
The boy’s writing, manuscript (ANTONY MS) = ANTONYMS: all the same, that’s not.
4: BY AND BY
By way of (BY AND BY) EVENTUAL (BY AND BY), but not for now (BY AND BY).
Something like that, I guess …
5: SEMI-TE
Half (SEMI-) more than half = SEMITE: Jew (“d’you” sound).
Something like that …
6: BE-HIND
Be a deer (BE HIND) = BEHIND: not before (“be four”, by the sound of it).
7: P(EAS)ANTS
In “trousers” (P-ANTS) the “sea” (EAS) for = PEASANTS: the poor.
14: RODE
The street (ROAD) by the sound of it = RODE: one was on horseback.
16: AERO
This (AERO) with “so L” (SOL) might be = AEROSOL: the little squirt.
18: UNCL(OTH)E
Uncle (UNCL-E) has it “hot” inside (OTH) = UNCLOTHE: enough to undress.
20: I-DO-LATER
I put things off (I DO LATER) being = IDOLATER: heathen.
An oldie but goody …
21: EX-TRACTS
From (EX) the pamphlets (TRACTS) = EXTRACTS: what one removes.
23: ENEMIES
25: LEE-WAY
The long one, eel, to turn up (LEE) like this (WAY) for = LEEWAY: room.
26: I’D-IO-TS
I had (I’D) ten-ts, perhaps (IO-TS) = IDIOTS: without thinking.
28: RED MAN

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
8: WANT-ONLY
9: ELEVEN
10: KIM-O-NO
11: N(OISI)EST
12: RE-ALLY
13: B(REED-IN)G
15: MAY-O
17: SUNRISE
19: DISEASE
22: REED
24: S(CALL)ION
27: OTTERS
29: SOLE-C-IS-M
30: A-WARD’S
31: A HEART
32: EVENT-UAL

Down
1: MA-LICE
2: ST-ROLLER
3: ANTONY-MS
4: BY AND BY
5: SEMI-TE
6: BE-HIND
7: P(EAS)ANTS
14: RODE
16: AERO
18: UNCL(OTH)E
20: I-DO-LATER
21: EX-TRACTS
23: ENEMIES
25: LEE-WAY
26: I’D-IO-TS
28: RED MAN

WEB Crossword No: 118 - 25 Sep 11, Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 23:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
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Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues.

Here’s another WEB Crossword that uses the “Terrible Tuesday” Crosaire grid. I’d rate the clues at the 3/5 level of difficulty but, because the gird is in effect divided into four almost-separate puzzles, maybe it’s a 4/5 overall. That makes it about as tough as the harder Crosaire crosswords. I’d warn anyone new to the WEB style that they might find it a shade more tricky to solve. I’ve tried to include at least one “gimme” in each of the quadrants to keep things moving along. By the way, what do you guys think of the Crosaire grids compared to the more "open" girds that I usually use for the WEB. Does the grid design make that much difference to you as a solver?

As always, thanks in advance for checking out the Sunday WEB. If you get a chance to leave me some feedback, in a comment below or in an email, that would be much appreciated. I am always trying to improve!

Across
1 Miner accessories, they're placed either side of a grille (9)
9 After it's incorporated, he is revealing these measures (6)
10 Unruly, or drunk, at the highway (5,4)
11 It's the gun for two Englishmen in Australia? (3-3)
12 A little power-mat ... will it malfunction? (9)
13 Implore a person to leave? (6)
17 They make a lot of paint here, in Paris (3)
19 A capital B and L ... quick! (7)
20 Upset Dad was taken in by Sonny's partner; she was the big cheese! (7)
21 Bring a suit to America, back east (3)
23 Provoked a politician about freedom from Labour (6)
27 Concerned with money and northern spies infiltrating the final (9)
28 It's entirely at home with Dorothy's dog (2,4)
29 Cheers for the new mottos in the back of the pub (7,2)
30 Make a mistake, and you might run one (6)
31 Use a needle to get the bromide mixture into the queen (9)

Down
2 Exotic gear that captured the West Indies insect (6)
3 Hang 500 there, between the two lines (6)
4 ← ← (6)
5 Credit cards last seen in the picture (7)
6 Care of a Reverend up there in the nude, absurdly naked (9)
7 Lots of cargo for Di's posh LA resort (9)
8 A lack of balance, yet my arms flail about (9)
14 Didn't vote for Jack and switched instead (9)
15 It's like the smell round the Limerick plant (9)
16 Like a tiger is neat in a magazine wrapper ... (3-6)
17 It is only even in fifths, sixths or ninths (2'1)
18 Kill for diamonds (3)
22 It's worn, this university paperwork? (7)
24 That meaningless chatter sounds more like Patrick? (6)
25 It's a swindle ... 22/7 for seafood! (6)
26 Listen, man, you're a bit of a stinker! (6)

Here is each clue alongside its answer, with an explanation of the link between clue and answer. I hope it all makes sense! As always, I welcome feedback via comment and/or email. I’m particularly interested in hearing about clues that were too obvious or easy, and clues that were annoying or perhaps caused frustration. But, I’ll listen to all suggestions on how to make WEB puzzles more challenging and more fun!

Across
1 Miner accessories, they're placed either side of a grille (9)
HEAD-LAMPS
Miner accessories (HEAD LAMPS) = HEADLAMPS: they’re placed either side of a grille (on a car).
9 After it's incorporated, he is revealing these measures (6)
INC-HE’S
After “it’s incorporated” (INC) he is (HE’S) revealing = INCHES: these measures.
10 Unruly, or drunk, at the highway (5,4)
TRUNK ROAD
Unruly “or drunk, at” = TRUNK ROAD: the highway.
11 It's the gun for two Englishmen in Australia? (3-3)
POM-POM
An Englishman in Australia (POM) a second one (POM) for = POM-POM: it’s the gun.
12 A little power-mat ... will it malfunction? (9)
MILLIWATT
“Mat … will it” malfunction = MILLIWATT: a little power.
13 Implore a person to leave? (6)
BEG-ONE
Implore (BEG) a person (ONE) = BEGONE: implore a person to leave!
17 They make a lot of paint here, in Paris (3)
ICI
They make a lot of paint (ICI) “here”, in Paris (ICI).
19 A capital B and L ... quick! (7)
B-EL-FAST
B (B) and “L” (EL) quick (FAST) = BELFAST: a capital.
20 Upset Dad was taken in by Sonny's partner; she was the big cheese! (7)
CHE(DDA)R
Sonny’s partner, she was (CHE-R) taking in “Dad” upset (DDA) = CHEDDAR: the big cheese.
21 Bring a suit to America, back east (3)
SU-E
To America, ‘US’, back (SU) east (E) = SUE: bring a suit.
23 Provoked a politician about freedom from Labour (6)
T(EASE)D
A politician (T-D) about “freedom from labour” (EASE) = TEASED: provoked.
27 Concerned with money and northern spies infiltrating the final (9)
FINA(N-CIA)L
The final (FINA-L) infiltrated by “northern spies” (N-CIA) = FINANCIAL: concerned with money.
28 It's entirely at home with Dorothy's dog (2,4)
IN TOTO
At home (IN) with “Dorothy’s dog” (in Oz) (TOTO) it’s = IN TOTO: entirely.
29 Cheers for the new mottos in the back of the pub (7,2)
B(OTTOMS) UP
In “the back of the pub’” (B-UP) the new “mottos” (OTTOMS) for = BOTTOMS UP: cheers.
30 Make a mistake, and you might run one (6)
ERR-AND
Make a mistake (ERR) and (AND) = ERRAND: you might run one.
31 Use a needle to get the bromide mixture into the queen (9)
E(MBROIDE)R
Into “the Queen” (E-R) get the “bromide” mixture (MBROIDE) = EMBROIDER: use a needle.

Down
2 Exotic gear that captured the West Indies insect (6)
EAR(WI)G
Exotic “gear” that (EAR-G) captured “the West Indies” (WI) = EARWIG: insect.
3 Hang 500 there, between the two lines (6)
D-ANGLE
500 (D) there, between the two lines (ANGLE) = DANGLE: hang.
4 ← ← (6)
ARROWS
← (ARROW) ← ← (ARROWS).
5 Credit cards last seen in the picture (7)
P(LAST)IC
In “the picture” (P-IC) “last” seen (LAST) = PLASTIC: credit cards.
6 Care of a Reverend up there in the nude, absurdly naked (9)
UN(C/O-VER)ED
In the “nude” absurdly (UN-ED) [care of (C/O) a Reverend, ‘Rev’, up there (VER)] = UNCOVERED: naked.
7 Lots of cargo for Di's posh LA resort (9)
SHIPLOADS
“Di’s post LA” resort, for = SHIPLOADS: lots of cargo.
8 A lack of balance, yet my arms flail about (9)
ASSYMETRY
“Yet my arms” flail about = ASSYMETRY: a lack of balance.
14 Didn't vote for Jack and switched instead (9)
AB-STAINED
Jack (AB) and switched “instead” (STAINED) for = ABSTAINED: didn’t vote.
15 It's like the smell round the Limerick plant (9)
O-L-FACTORY
Round (O) the Limerick (L) plant (FACTORY) = OLFACTORY: it’s like the smell.
16 Like a tiger is neat in a magazine wrapper ... (3-6)
MA(NEAT-IN)G
In “a magazine” wrapper (MA-G) neat in (NEAT IN) is = MAN-EATING: like a tiger.
17 It is only even in fifths, sixths or ninths (2'1)
IT’S
Only even (letters) in “f-I-f-T-h-S”, “s-I-x-T-h-S” or “n-I-n-T-h-S” (ITS) = IT’S: it is.
18 Kill for diamonds (3)
ICE
Kill (ICE) for “diamonds” (ICE).
22 It's worn, this university paperwork? (7)
UNI-FORM
This “university” (UNI) paperwork (FORM) = UNIFORM: it’s worn.
24 That meaningless chatter sounds more like Patrick? (6)
PAT-TER
More like “Patrick”? (PAT-ER) sounds = PATTER: that meaningless chatter.
25 It's a swindle ... 22/7 for seafood! (6)
SCAM-PI
It’s “a swindle” (SCAM) 22/7 (PI) for = SCAMPI: seafood.
26 Listen, man, you're a bit of a stinker! (6)
MANURE
Listen: “man, you’re” = MANURE: a bit of a stinker!

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1 Miner accessories, they're placed either side of a grille (9)
HEAD-LAMPS
9 After it's incorporated, he is revealing these measures (6)
INC-HE’S
10 Unruly, or drunk, at the highway (5,4)
TRUNK ROAD
11 It's the gun for two Englishmen in Australia? (3-3)
POM-POM
12 A little power-mat ... will it malfunction? (9)
MILLIWATT
13 Implore a person to leave? (6)
BEG-ONE
17 They make a lot of paint here, in Paris (3)
ICI
19 A capital B and L ... quick! (7)
B-EL-FAST
20 Upset Dad was taken in by Sonny's partner; she was the big cheese! (7)
CHE(DDA)R
21 Bring a suit to America, back east (3)
SU-E
23 Provoked a politician about freedom from Labour (6)
T(EASE)D
27 Concerned with money and northern spies infiltrating the final (9)
FINA(N-CIA)L
28 It's entirely at home with Dorothy's dog (2,4)
IN TOTO
29 Cheers for the new mottos in the back of the pub (7,2)
B(OTTOMS) UP
30 Make a mistake, and you might run one (6)
ERR-AND
31 Use a needle to get the bromide mixture into the queen (9)
E(MBROIDE)R

Down
2 Exotic gear that captured the West Indies insect (6)
EAR(WI)G
3 Hang 500 there, between the two lines (6)
D-ANGLE
4 <--- <--- (6)
ARROWS
5 Credit cards last seen in the picture (7)
P(LAST)IC
6 Care of a Reverend up there in the nude, absurdly naked (9)
UN(C/O-VER)ED
7 Lots of cargo for Di's posh LA resort (9)
SHIPLOADS
8 A lack of balance, yet my arms flail about (9)
ASSYMETRY
14 Didn't vote for Jack and switched instead (9)
AB-STAINED
15 It's like the smell round the Limerick plant (9)
O-L-FACTORY
16 Like a tiger is neat in a magazine wrapper ... (3-6)
MA(NEAT-IN)G
17 It is only even in fifths, sixths or ninths (2'1)
IT’S
18 Kill for diamonds (3)
ICE
22 It's worn, this university paperwork? (7)
UNI-FORM
24 That meaningless chatter sounds more like Patrick? (6)
PAT-TER
25 It's a swindle ... 22/7 for seafood! (6)
SCAM-PI
26 Listen, man, you're a bit of a stinker! (6)
MANURE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14581 - 24 Sep 11, Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 00:16:00 +0000

This weekend’s WEB Crossword uses the “Terrible Tuesday” Crosaire grid, as I do like a challenge. I’d rate the clues at the 3/5 level of difficulty, but because the gird is in effect divided into four, almost separate puzzles, maybe it’s a 4/5 overall. That makes it about as tough as the harder Crosaire crosswords. I’d warn anyone new to the WEB style that they might find it a shade more tricky to solve. I’ve tried to include at least one “gimme” in each of the quadrants to keep things moving along. WEB Crossword No: 118 appears on the blog at midnight tonight (Saturday).

QuickLinks:
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I thought I was looking at a swift Saturday solving experience as I copped onto the BETTER theme immediately, and slotted in 3½ of the four theme answers within 30 seconds! I did finish pretty quickly in the end, but things slowed down a lot at the end. I needed LAID in the northwest to solve SUNDIAL in the southeast, and that helped get me out of a rut. Last three in were TEDIUM (I was toying with TANTUM, from the hymn “Tantum Ergo”), then DISPUTE and finally OCULIST. Finished in 13m 14s, and back to r1ow after yesterday’s fiasco.

Here are my answers. As always, I welcome comments and explanations. Thanks!

Across
1: FEELING BETTER
10: HEAVIER
One may have to weight (sounds as if “wait”) a bit more.
11: BRITTLE
12: NAIL
May be on hand (NAIL) to be driven home (NAIL).
13: S-ABLE
Perhaps “s-can” (S-ABLE) = SABLE: the fur.
An oldie but goody ...
15: PART
Just a bit (PART) in play (PART).
17: NEE
How she at the end of DIS-MISS (MISS) was born = NEE.
19: BUNK-UM
A little bed-ding (BUNK) um (UM) that’s just = BUNKUM: rot.
21: SITTER
An easy shot (SITTER) for a portrait painter (SITTER).
22: CUR-IOUS
The brute (CUR) sort of promises (IOUS) for = CURIOUS: odd.
23: TEDIUM
This old hymn (TE DEUM) the sound of = TEDIUM: gets to be boring.
The title of the hymn “Te Deum” translates from Latin as “Thee, O God” ...
25: MAUSER
A hunter of mice (MOUSER) sounds like = MAUSER: a rifle.
“Mauser” is a brand of rifle, German-made …
27: POT
Take a (POT)shot at the vessel (POT).
29: EASY
Will “‘e say”, an anagram = EASY: simple.
30: HO-NEY
Greeting (HO) to a marshal of Napoleon (NEY) = HONEY: sweet.
Clue of the Day!
Michel Ney was one of 18 Marshals of France created by Bonaparte, as we’ve seen before …
31: INTO
Sh! (SH) it would be entering (INTO) = SHINTO: with this in Japan.
34: OCULIST
Eye (sounds as if “I”) get a treat, perhaps, from one.
35: D-IS-MISS
500’s (D IS) single (MISS) = DISMISS: sack it.
36: BETTER ONESELF

Down
2: ELATION
Number one story (NO I TALE) up like this = ELATION: pleasure.
Very nice indeed …
3: LAID
The last of SUN-DIAL (DIAL) up here is = LAID: lying.
4: NOR-MAN
Not even human (NOR MAN) = NORMAN: not Saxon.
Excellent …
5: BUBBLE
6: TRIM
“An” addition (AN) would get “this from Meath” (TRIM) = ANTRIM: to Ulster.
7: EX-TRACT
A former pamphlet (EX-TRACT) = EXTRACT: take a bit out of.
8: THINK BETTER OF
9: BETTER OR WORSE
14: BEN-IS-ON
Benjamin’s willing (BEN IS ON) to be = BENISON: a blessing.
An oldie but goody …
16: M(UC)US
“SUM” (M-US) about “you, see” (UC) = MUCUS: discharge it.
18: VI-SAS
Six (VI) get the “ass” confused (SAS) = VISAS: to get them out.
20: MUM
She (MUM) gets the chance to hold her tongue (MUM).
21: SUM
The figures (SUM) Mary (MARY) = SUMMARY: might make short.
24: DIS(PUT)E
Inside the “side” (DIS-E) put (PUT) = DISPUTE: can’t agree to.
26: SUNDIAL
27: PORTER
That’s for one who can carry (PORTER) his drink (PORTER).
28: T-END-ON
Finish on (-END-ON) is the “last” part of the answer = TENDON: on sinew.
32: MIST
This sort of befogged (MIST) a king (A-KING) = MISTAKING: in error.
33: USES
By “the thousand” (M) “they” (USES) = MUSES: there’s only nine.
There are nine MUSES, as we learned in one my wittier (!) Look-Ups of the Day, back in August of last year ...

Reveal-An-Answer
Need just one answer to get things moving? Here is my solution to today's puzzle, in a hidden format. To reveal any particular answer, highlight the whole line containing the relevant clue number.

Across
1: FEELING BETTER
10: HEAVIER
11: BRITTLE
12: NAIL
13: S-ABLE
15: PART
17: NEE
19: BUNK-UM
21: SITTER
22: CUR-IOUS
23: TEDIUM
25: MAUSER
27: POT
29: EASY
30: HO-NEY
31: INTO
34: OCULIST
35: D-IS-MISS
36: BETTER ONESELF

Down
2: ELATION
3: LAID
4: NOR-MAN
5: BUBBLE
6: TRIM
7: EX-TRACT
8: THINK BETTER OF
9: BETTER OR WORSE
14: BEN-IS-ON
16: M(UC)US
18: VI-SAS
20: MUM
21: SUM
24: DIS(PUT)E
26: SUNDIAL
27: PORTER
28: T-END-ON
32: MIST
33: USES