The Irish Times Crosaire Blog ... unofficially!

Answers to Crosaire No: 14099 - 10 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last this week's WEB Crossword

Greetings, all! I wasn't quite as zippy going through today's puzzle, but I did emerge victorious, so that always puts me in a good mood (I am so easily pleased!). Had to think long and hard until MOTHERLY came to me, and then I put in a hesitant POLICE to stop the clock at 20m 27s. And now I am at a very scary r5ow.

Today's Crosaire Aria
17A: OYSTER
Somehow the seventies rock band Blue Oyster Cult got right by me when I was a young lad. I only discovered their big 1976 hit (Don't Fear) The Reaper on the soundtrack of a video game would you believe, about 10 years ago? I love the minimalist feel of the song with the recurring guitar riff, and the driving tempo is almost hypnotic. You know, their sound reminds me somewhat of Horslips. Anyway, I found an Aria that plays off OYSTER ... quite an achievement I'd say! This is another clip that needs the speakers turned right up. It should get the kids out of bed of a morning.

The Clue of the Day
4A: The only small number I had in current use (8)
M. Crosaire provides us today with a nice and precise "physi-clue", the trademarks of puzzles by our own physics Teacher, Tommy, and our own physics student, Mark (who has been in hiding of late, working towards his finals). The only (SOLE) small number (NO) I had (I'D) = SOLENOID: in current use.

The Lookup of the Day
10A: AFFLATUS
AFFLATUS is a Latin term that we have lifted directly from the writings of Cicero, the Roman philosopher and statesman. Just as "inspiration" comes from the word "inspire", to draw in the breath, AFFLATUS comes from afflare, "to blow upon". So inspiration comes to us, we breathe it in, whereas with AFFLATUS the idea is blown at us, by a divine wind. AFFLATUS is more than the gathering of an idea that can inspire, it is more mystical and overwhelming. Interesting ...

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

Across
1: SAMPAN
4: SOLE-NO-I'D
The only (SOLE) small number (NO) I had (I'D) = SOLENOID: in current use.
Nice one, and a physi-clue for Tommy ...
9: ANTICS
10: A-F-FLAT-US
Such a loud (A F) apartment (FLAT) with us (US) = AFFLATUS: what a divine inspiration to have.
AFFLATUS is divine communication of knowledge, it says here ...
12: LIEGE ... anagram of "glee I".
A LIEGE is a feudal lord, and a city in Belgium ...
13: GYRATIONS ... anagram of "stingy" and "oar".
15: NUN
No could be better than she (NONE) by the sound of it = NUN: sister.
16: RELIT ... anagram of "litre".
17: OYST(E)R
In a story (OYST-R) is 'e ('E) = OYSTER: "shelley" perhaps.
22: LYCEUM ... anagram of "my clue".
A LYCEUM is just that, a hall for public performances of various ilks ...
24: TREAT
27: MAR
A sheep (RAM) by turning it on its back = MAR: spoil.
Nice one ...
28: A-FORE-TIME
When there's a warning, of (golf) course (A FORE TIME) = AFORETIME: previously.
31: ABE-LE
Little Abraham (ABE) with the French (LE) but also = ABELE = POP-u-LAR without little you = poplar.
ABELE is the Old English name for the white poplar, as we saw in a Lookup of the Day back in August of last year ...
32: PR(IN-C)ESS
In the press (PR-ESS) in a hundred (IN C) = PRINCESS: for the palace.
33: STRAND
A string (STAND) along the shore (STRAND) for a banana (STRAND).
Banana is associated with the STRAND in London, from the lyrics “Let’s all go down the Strand (‘ave a banana) …”, as we've seen before ...
34: THE PLATE
A plate can be awarded as a prize, and it's flat.
35: ED-I-TED
Between Edward 1 (ED-I) and Edward 11, a second Edward (TED) = EDITED: got it for a change.
I think that's it. Anyone see anything different?

Down
1: SMALL FRY
2: M(OTHER-L)Y
My (M-Y) that's about the different half-century (OTHER L) = MOTHERLY: that's parental.
3: AN(CIENTL)Y
In any circumstances (AN-Y) the client (CIENTL) for = ANCIENTLY: as of old.
5: OFF-'ER
One is no longer keen on (OFF) her ('ER) = OFFER: tender.
6: E(C)LAT
In a "late" way (E-LAT) see (C) = ECLAT: what a fuss there is.
An ECLAT is demonstration of admiration, applause ...
7: OPTION ... anagram of "potion".
8: DE(SIS)T
Ted getting up (DE-T) about his little sister (SIS) = DESIST: stop.
11: IGNORE
"Not 2, no" ... sounds like (NOT TO KNOW) = IGNORE.
14: ART
"Are" you are they used to put it = ART (thou).
18: SUMMER
A totter is one who sums up things (SUMMER) and SUMMER comes before the season of fall/autumn.
19: EXTRACTED
I think this was meant to be an anagram of "tax" and "creed", but it isn't. Anyone?
20: RE(LEVA)NT
In the rent (RE-NT) the vale (LEVA) = RELEVANT: that applies.
21: A-TT-ENDED
A teetotaller (A TT) was no longer there (ENDED) = ATTENDED: all there.
23: CAT
The "line" of the "fee" (FEE LINE) sounds like (FELINE) = CAT: gets the nine of the livings (has nine lives).
25: TAP-PET
Little knock (TAP) for CAT (PET) = TAPPET: in the engine.
The TAPPETS are the levers that open and close the valves, I think!
26: PO-LICE
The lousy (-LICE) is the "last" part of the answer = POLICE: have they re-gard (guard), or are they watching, perhaps? Anyone?
29: EXCEL
To go one better (EXCEL) before Lent (LENT) = EXCELLENT: would be all for the best.
30: INS('E)T
During this month (INS-T) 'E ('E) = INSET: is included.

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: SAMPAN
4: SOLE-NO-I'D
9: ANTICS
10: A-F-FLAT-US
12: LIEGE
13: GYRATIONS
15: NUN
16: RELIT
17: OYST(E)R
22: LYCEUM
24: TREAT
27: MAR
28: A-FORE-TIME
31: ABE-LE
32: PR(IN-C)ESS
33: STRAND
34: THE PLATE
35: ED-I-TED

Down
1: SMALL FRY
2: M(OTHER-L)Y
3: AN(CIENTL)Y
5: OFF-'ER
6: E(C)LAT
7: OPTION
8: DE(SIS)T
11: IGNORE
14: ART
18: SUMMER
19: EXTRACTED
20: RE(LEVA)NT
21: A-TT-ENDED
23: CAT
25: TAP-PET
26: PO-LICE
29: EXCEL
30: INS('E)T

Answers to Crosaire No: 14098 - 9 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last this week's WEB Crossword

I missed the MCC tonight because I was off at the pictures. We saw the latest Roman Polanski film The Ghost Writer. What a great film! I highly recommend it to one and all. It's a thriller, mystery movie, I suppose, but very moody. Kept my attention the whole time. As did today's Crosaire puzzle. It seemed tough enough, and yet somehow I managed to race through, finishing in 11m 46s. So now I am on an optimistic r4ow.

Today's Crosaire Aria
19A: SISTERS
The Pointer Sisters grew up just down the road here from where I live, in Oakland, California. Over the years they recorded quite a few songs that have now made it onto my mp3 player, including Jump (For My Love), I'm So Excited and Neutron Dance. It's getting late here, so I am opting for something a little more mellow. From 1981, Slow Hand ...

The Clue of the Day
Even though it was an enjoyable puzzle, I can't really point at a clue that stands out today. Perhaps that's why I registered such a good time ...

The Lookup of the Day
30A: BATHOS
BATHOS comes directly from Greek, the word meaning "depth". In the spoken and written arts, BATHOS is used to describe a particular type of humor, whereby an ironic combination of ideas or images is used to get the point across. This often involves the combination of something serious with something relatively trivial. For example, the Mona Lisa on a tea-towel, or a revolver that turns out to be a cigarette lighter when the trigger is pulled. In this sense BATHOS has come to simply mean "anti-climax" as well.

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

Across
1: OBJECT-ION
The thing (OBJECT) to get charged (ION) for = OBJECTION: it's not agreeable.
9: OBTUSE
"Bus" to get mixed up with one's "toe" = OBTUSE: it's not a-cute.
10: STOCKADES
Perhaps the kind of of-fence to keep one out.
A bit of a stutter there ...
11: RE-PORT
About (RE) a drink (PORT) = REPORT: one goes off like this.
12: SER-RATION
An allowance (-RATION) is the "last" part of the answer = SERRATION: of teeth.
13: A-TT-AIN
Off drink (A TT) on one's own in Scotland (AIN) = ATTAIN: get to be.
17: ASK
Could one see (C) the question (ASK) = CASK: like a KEG.
19: S(IS)TERS
Twisted tress (S-TERS) is in (IS) for = SISTERS: them relatively.
20: ENVI-O-US
The tangled vine (ENVI) gets round (O) to us (US) to make = ENVIOUS: us green.
21: HOG
With this beast (HOG) man (MAN) ay (AY) = HOGMANAY: a Scot celebrates.
23: RAISED
Brought up, or got up for higher ("hire" by the sound of it).
27: TIME-PIECE
Just bit (-PIECE) is the "last" part of the answer = TIMEPIECE: watch this.
28: LIA-IS-'E
Sick, 'ail', up (LIA) is 'e (IS 'E) = LIAISE: at having to make contact.
29: MISS-H-A-PEN
The girl (MISS) H (H) gets something to write with (A PEN) = MISSHAPEN: crooked.
30: BATH-OS
Must have a washer (BATH) "so" to return (OS) = BATHOS: with anticlimax ("Auntie Climax" by the sound of it).
Ah, good ol' Auntie Climax. I remember her well ...
BATHOS is just that, anticlimax.
31: CE(RE)MENTS
Makes it hards (CE-MENTS) round about (RE) = CEREMENTS: and grave, so they do.
CEREMENTS are old friends, shrouds or clothing in which a body is buried.

Down
2: BOTH-'ER
The two of them (BOTH) with 'er ('ER) for = BOTHER: trouble.
3: EN-CORE
The centre (-CORE) comes at the bottom (of the answer) = ENCORE: once more.
4: TRA(I)TS
Start (TRA-TS) one in it (I) to make = TRAITS: signs.
5: ONE-ROUS
A single (ONE) sour twist (ROUS) is = ONEROUS: such a burden.
6: OBJECT-I'VE
The thing (OBJECT) I have (I'VE) = OBJECTIVE: to aim for.
7: AUTO-MAT-ON
To get something to stand on (-MAT-ON) is the "last" part of the answer = AUTOMATON: robot.
8: TEST-INESS
To be trying (TEST) is the "start" of the answer = TESTINESS: to be so bad-tempered.
14: ASTROLABE ... anagram of "real boats".
An ASTROLABE is an instrument used in astronomy to determine the positions of stars, and something I wrote about just after starting the Blog (before there was ever a Lookup of the Day) back in February of last year ...
15: ASPIRA-ANTS
Pairs (ASPIR) followed by insects (ANTS) = ASPIRANTS: those that are so trying.
16: RECESSION
17: ASH
18: K-EG
Potassium (K) for example (EG) for = KEG: the container.
22: OR-IF-ICE
Alternative (OR) if (IF) it's frozen (ICE) = ORIFICE: hole (sounds like the "whole").
24: LESS-EE
Not so much (LESS) E at the double (EE) = LESSEE: if one is not the owner.
25: MI-RAGE
I am, 'I'm', up (MI) with fury (RAGE) = MIRAGE: I don't really see.
26: A-CC-ENT
A (A) two hundred (CC) and ten (ENT) = ACCENT: in a manner of speaking.

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: OBJECT-ION
9: OBTUSE
10: STOCKADES
11: RE-PORT
12: SER-RATION
13: A-TT-AIN
17: ASK
19: S(IS)TERS
20: ENVI-O-US
21: HOG
23: RAISED
27: TIME-PIECE
28: LIA-IS-'E
29: MISS-H-A-PEN
30: BATH-OS
31: CE(RE)MENTS
Down
2: BOTH-'ER
3: EN-CORE
4: TRA(I)TS
5: ONE-ROUS
6: OBJECT-I'VE
7: AUTO-MAT-ON
8: TEST-INESS
14: ASTROLABE
15: ASPIRA-ANTS
16: RECESSION
17: ASH
18: K-EG
22: OR-IF-ICE
24: LESS-EE
25: MI-RAGE
26: A-CC-ENT

Answers to Crosaire No: 14097 - 8 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last this week's WEB Crossword

Two bits of good news (for me anyway). No typos that I could see (yay!) and I scraped by with a clearance, in about 21m (I paused the clock once to talk with someone, and it ended up recording 17m 316s! I always seem to have trouble with the answer TATTOO, and once again it took ages for me to fill in, have successfully put the rest to bed. Starting the week with an r3ow ...

Today's Crosaire Aria
31A: BYGONE
Today (March 7th) is my brother's birthday, so I called him to have a chat (he lives in Harold's Cross, Dublin). It's his 51st birthday, but like everyone I suppose, I tend to remember the silly things from a BYGONE era. The Bay City Rollers released Bye, Bye, Baby in 1975, when by brother was 16 and a big fan of the group. He wore the same baggy pants and had the bouffant hair, so he really looked like Les McKeown, the lead singer. If you take a look at this clip, you'll realize just how much of a plonker my young brother was (said he, affectionately!). (Note to self: send brother this clip, copy to all of his friends ...)

The Clue of the Day
10A: Let it stand round about the way (6)
I do like precision. I haven't seen M. Crosaire use the word STET before, so this clue has a nice, fresh feel to it as well. Let it stand (ST-ET) round about (RE) = STREET: the way.

The Lookup of the Day
25D: TATTOO
There's nothing really obscure today, so let's have a look at the origins of the word TATTOO. The first mention of a tattoo is in the writings from the voyages of Captain Cook on board the "Endeavour". In 1769, Joseph Banks, the naturalist on board ship, described the indelible markings with which Polynesian people adorned their bodies. The Polynesian word for such markings is tatau, or in Tahitian tatu. We use the same pronunciation today in English, but spell it phonetically as TATTOO. Personally, I abhor the things ...

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

Across
8: CO(ME) HERE
Stick (CO-HERE) around me (ME) and = COME HERE: don't go.
Nice and precise start ...
9: CL-ERIC
After a century and a half (CL) for ground rice (ERIC) = CLERIC: for the church.
10: ST(RE)ET
Let it stand (ST-ET) round about (RE) = STREET: the way.
Also lovely and precise ...
STET is a term an editor uses to negate a prior correction in a document ...
11: TURN-INGS
I may need help here ...
STREET may have a corner (TURN) and "sing" with it (INGS) = TURNINGS: for them.
Am I missing something?
UPDATE: Yes, I was missing something, as someone has pointed out (below). TURNINGS is an old word for a refrain, and cab also refer to verses or melodies. That probably accounts for the "sing" reference in the clue.
12: UNITER
13: EBB TIDES
15: LADY
A LADY-bird is not a bird, though it might be a hen.
17: FRIDAYS
Always Sat(urday) after fasting on FRIDAYS.
19: EASIEST ... anagram of "sea ties".
22: PA-ST
Father (PA) makes a little STREET (ST) = PAST: BYGONE.
24: M-IS-TRESS
Grand (M) is (IS) the hair (TRESS) = MISTRESS: that's not for the wife.
27: LINERS
29: S(WITCH) ON
One's boy (S-ON) is about to be spelling (WITCH) = SWITCH ON: to make light of it.
30: NO-VICE
There is any harm (NO VICE) = NOVICE: in one so new.
31: BYGONE
32: NOT A-T ALL
Perhaps one short (NOT A TALL) = NOT AT ALL: but don't mention it.

Down
1: COT-TON
Little bed (COT) but lot of weight with (TON) = COTTON: this stuff.
2: CEMENTED
That's to be done with c-on-crete.
3: WESTERLY
4: SETT-LED
Where the badger (SETT) was the leader (LED) and = SETTLED: paid for it.
A SETT is a badger's burrow ...
5: SC-ARAB
Take counsel (SC) with one from the desert (ARAB) = SCARAB: for luck.
6: GEM-IN-I
With something precious (WITH) in one of them (IN I) = GEMINI: is there a sign of two of them?
7: RING-LET'S
Phone (RING) shall we? (LET'S) = RINGLETS: about the hairdo.
14: B-YES
Agreeable (-YES) is the "last" part of the answer = BYES: they're for cricket.
16: ASPS ... anagram of "pass".
18: RAILWAYS
20: AT LENGTH
21: IN-NOV-ATE
In (IN) November (NOV) was fed (ATE) = INNOVATE: a-new.
23: AS-I-NINE
Like (AS) 1 (I) 9 (NINE) = ASININE: how silly can one be?
You're telling me ...
25: TATTOO
26: ECHOED
Not sure where the "safe" comes in though ...
28: RE-C-ALL
About (RE) the hundred (C) and that's the whole of it (ALL) = RECALL: ring again.

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: CO(ME) HERE
9: CL-ERIC
10: ST(RE)ET
11: TURN-INGS
12: UNITER
13: EBB TIDES
15: LADY
17: FRIDAYS
19: EASIEST
22: PA-ST
24: M-IS-TRESS
27: LINERS
29: S(WITCH) ON
30: NO-VICE
31: BYGONE
32: NOT A-T ALL

Down
1: COT-TON
2: CEMENTED
3: WESTERLY
4: SETT-LED
5: SC-ARAB
6: GEM-IN-I
7: RING-LET'S
14: B-YES
16: ASPS
18: RAILWAYS
20: AT LENGTH
21: IN-NOV-ATE
23: AS-I-NINE
25: TATTOO
26: ECHOED
28: RE-C-ALL

WEB Crossword No: 046 - 7 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Print today's WEB puzzle (spoiler alert ... today's solution and clue explanations are included on a second page!)
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues.

To mangle my metaphor, March is coming in like a lamb with a WEB Crossword rated at 1/5 in terms of difficulty. Hopefully, this will be a gentle stroll to the finish, with a couple of interesting stops along the way.

And a reminder ... the Sunday slot is still open for anyone who wants to post his or her own, original crossword. Just contact me and I will help you with the mechanics of compiling and posting.

Across
1 The practical part, with magic twists (9)
6 The general manager took in Pooh's friend so now he's working in a stable environment (5)
9 As the Church of England (and the Poles) have one on the island ... (9)
10 Father followed me to Lima to find silver, or was it gold? (5)
11 It's perhaps how old you'll be at the end of your sentence that makes you powerless (6)
12 They're pretty high, and ill, taking pot back in high school (8)
14 Absurdly, apartheid's made the lists of bestsellers (3,7)
16 'Morning, Doc! Is this for the shots? (4)
18 In part, from a new set of locks (4)
19 It's just like Pauline McLynn to come to a resort in need (10)
21 A singer with an arrangement for some older women (8)
22 It's not often you hear "buyed 'em" ... quite the opposite! (6)
26 Ideas about half a single? (1-4)
27 It's about commerce and the varied incomes around the company (9)
28 Dublin registrations are found at the bottom (5)
29 There's no point ... I can't see or hear as much (9)

Down
1 In the post office, Ian is the one with the keys (5)
2 A "North of Englander" might race there (5)
3 Nearly clones the nag he starts with, and will moan about (8)
4 There's cotton on that part of the tree (4)
5 If you ask quickly, can't he leave her at the bridge? (10)
6 A chance to mosey past Galway (6)
7 He works on tasks from nine to five, but won't do nos. 6 and 8? (3-3,3)
8 This troubled me, son ... it'll become quite a burden (9)
13 Instruments used to forecast how many pints you'll have? (10)
14 O, Meg! You must have a hard shell to volunteer while the regulars are away (4,5)
15 Sort of attentive and hesitant at the same time (9)
17 Wearing it back-to-front confuses me, Rose (8)
20 Except when Les is in the sun at sea ... (6)
23 Doctor, I have fire in my belly (5)
24 The old lawman didn't finish Mo's essay (5)
25 It'll be Sligo first, then around the North before long (4)

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 my puzzles more challenging and more fun!

Across
1 The practical part, with magic twists (9)
PRAGMATIC
"Part" with "magic" twists = PRAGMATIC: the practical.
6 The general manager took in Pooh's friend so now he's working in a stable environment (5)
G(ROO)M
The general manager (G-M) took in Pooh's friend (ROO) so now = GROOM: he's working in a stable environment.
9 As the Church of England (and the Poles) have one on the island ... (9)
AS-CE-NS-I-ON
As (AS) the Church of England (CE) and the Poles (NS) have one on (I ON) = ASCENSION: the island.
10 Father followed me to Lima to find silver, or was it gold? (5)
ME-DA-L
Me (ME) followed by Father (DA) to Lima (L) to find = MEDAL: silver, or was it gold?
11 It's perhaps how old you'll be at the end of your sentence that makes you powerless (6)
OUT-AGE
It's perhaps how old you'll be at the end of your sentence (OUT AGE) = OUTAGE: that make's you powerless.
12 They're pretty high, and ill, taking pot back in high school (8)
H(ILL-TOP)S
In high school (H-S) "ill" taking "pot" back (ILL TOP) and = HILLTOPS: they're pretty high.
14 Absurdly, apartheid's made the lists of bestsellers (3,7)
HIT PARADES
Absurdly "apartheid's" made = HIT PARADES: the lists of bestsellers.
16 'Morning, Doc! Is this for the shots? (4)
AM-MO
'Morning (AM) Doc (MO) = AMMO: is this for the shots?
18 In part, from a new set of locks (4)
MANE
In part "fro-M A NE-w" = MANE: set of locks.
19 It's just like Pauline McLynn to come to a resort in need (10)
COME-DIENNE
To come (COME) to a resort "in need" (DIENNE) = COMEDIENNE: it's just like Pauline McLynn.
21 A singer with an arrangement for some older women (8)
GRANNIES
A "singer" with "an" arrangement for = GRANNIES: some older women.
22 It's not often you hear "buyed 'em" ... quite the opposite! (6)
SELDOM
"Buyed 'em", quite the opposite (SELLED 'EM) you hear as = SELDOM: it's not often.
26 Ideas about half a single? (1-4)
A-SIDE
"Ideas" about = A-SIDE: half a single.
27 It's about commerce and the varied incomes around the company (9)
E(CO)NOMICS
The varied "incomes" (E-NOMICS) around the company (CO) and = ECONOMICS: it's about commerce.
28 Dublin registrations are found at the bottom (5)
D-REGS
Dublin (DUB) registrations (REGS) are = DREGS: found at the bottom.
29 There's no point ... I can't see or hear as much (9)
SENSE-LESS
I can't see or hear as much (SENSE LESS) = SENSELESS: there's no point.

Down
1 In the post office, Ian is the one with the keys (5)
P(IAN)O
In the post office (P-O) Ian (IAN) is = PIANO: the one with the keys.
2 A "North of Englander" might race there (5)
A-SCOT
A (A) North of Englander (SCOT) = ASCOT: might race there.
3 Nearly clones the nag he starts with, and will moan about (8)
MO(NAG-H)AN
Will "moan" about (MO-AN) the "nag" h-e starts with (NAG H) = MONAGHAN: near(ly) Clones.
4 There's cotton on that part of the tree (4)
TWIG
There's "cotton on" = TWIG: that part of the tree.
5 If you ask quickly, can't he leave her at the bridge? (10)
CANTILEVER
If you ask quickly "can't he leave her", you'll hear = CANTILEVER: at the bridge.
6 A chance to mosey past Galway (6)
G-AMBLE
Past Galway (G) to mosey (AMBLE) = GAMBLE: a chance.
7 He works on tasks from nine to five, but won't do nos. 6 and 8? (3-3,3)
ODD-JOB MAN
He works on tasks (JOBS) from 9-5 but won't do 6 & 8 (THE EVEN JOBS) so he's an ODD-JOB MAN!
8 This troubled me, son ... it'll become quite a burden (9)
MILLSTONE
This troubled "me, son ... it'll" become = MILLSTONE: quite a burden.
13 Instruments used to forecast how many pints you'll have? (10)
BAR-OMETERS
Instruments used to forecast how many pints you'll have ... in the bar? (BAR-OMETERS) = BAROMETERS: instruments used to forecast.
14 O, Meg! You must have a hard shell to volunteer while the regulars are away (4,5)
H(O-MEG-U)ARD
Must have a "hard" shell (H-ARD) O, Meg! You (O MEG U) to = HOME GUARD: volunteer while the regular (soldiers) are away.
15 Sort of attentive and hesitant at the same time (9)
TENTATIVE
Sort of "attentive" and at the same time = TENTATIVE: hesitant.
17 Wearing it back-to-front confuses me, Rose (8)
TI-RESOME
"It" back-to-front (TI) confuses "me, Rose" (RESOME) = TIRESOME: wearing.
20 Except when Les is in the sun at sea ... (6)
UN(LES)S
In the "sun" at sea (UN-S) is Les (LES) = UNLESS: except when.
23 Doctor, I have fire in my belly (5)
DR-I'VE
Doctor (DR) I have (I'VE) = DRIVE: fire in my belly.
24 The old lawman didn't finish Mo's essay (5)
MOSES
Didn't finish "MO'S-ES-say" = MOSES: the old law-man.
25 It'll be Sligo first, then around the North before long (4)
SO-O-N
It'll be Sligo first (SO) then a-round (O) the North (N) = SOON: before long.

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

Across
1 The practical part, with magic twists (9)
PRAGMATIC
6 The general manager took in Pooh's friend so now he's working in a stable environment (5)
G(ROO)M
9 As the Church of England (and the Poles) have one on the island ... (9)
AS-CE-NS-I-ON
10 Father followed me to Lima to find silver, or was it gold? (5)
ME-DA-L
11 It's perhaps how old you'll be at the end of your sentence that makes you powerless (6)
OUT-AGE
12 They're pretty high, and ill, taking pot back in high school (8)
H(ILL-TOP)S
14 Absurdly, apartheid's made the lists of bestsellers (3,7)
HIT PARADES
16 'Morning, Doc! Is this for the shots? (4)
AM-MO
18 In part, from a new set of locks (4)
MANE
19 It's just like Pauline McLynn to come to a resort in need (10)
COME-DIENNE
21 A singer with an arrangement for some older women (8)
GRANNIES
22 It's not often you hear "buyed 'em" ... quite the opposite! (6)
SELDOM
26 Ideas about half a single? (1-4)
A-SIDE
27 It's about commerce and the varied incomes around the company (9)
E(CO)NOMICS
28 Dublin registrations are found at the bottom (5)
D-REGS
29 There's no point ... I can't see or hear as much (9)
SENSE-LESS

Down
1 In the post office, Ian is the one with the keys (5)
P(IAN)O
2 A "North of Englander" might race there (5)
A-SCOT
3 Nearly clones the nag he starts with, and will moan about (8)
MO(NAG-H)AN
4 There's cotton on that part of the tree (4)
TWIG
5 If you ask quickly, can't he leave her at the bridge? (10)
CANTILEVER
6 A chance to mosey past Galway (6)
G-AMBLE
7 He works on tasks from nine to five, but won't do nos. 6 and 8? (3-3,3)
ODD-JOB MAN
8 This troubled me, son ... it'll become quite a burden (9)
MILLSTONE
13 Instruments used to forecast how many pints you'll have? (10)
BAR-OMETERS
14 O, Meg! You must have a hard shell to volunteer while the regulars are away (4,5)
H(O-MEG-U)ARD
15 Sort of attentive and hesitant at the same time (9)
TENTATIVE
17 Wearing it back-to-front confuses me, Rose (8)
TI-RESOME
20 Except when Les is in the sun at sea ... (6)
UN(LES)S
23 Doctor, I have fire in my belly (5)
DR-I'VE
24 The old lawman didn't finish Mo's essay (5)
MOSES
25 It'll be Sligo first, then around the North before long (4)
SO-O-N

Answers to Crosaire No: 14096 - 6 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 01:41:00 +0000

Sunday's WEB Crossword has a very lazy difficulty-rating of 1/5, after last week's 4/5 puzzle that gave rise to marathon solving sessions. If the WEB puzzle has scared you away in the past, this might be the one to draw you into the fold. It hits the Blog at midnight tonight, Irish time.

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last this week's WEB Crossword

After a year of relatively typo-free, online puzzles, something has definitely changed in the Irish Times production department over the past few weeks. I think I am going to have to reinstate the Typo of the Day award, just to make light of something that could otherwise get to be very annoying. After reviewing all the nominations, the winner of the TOD-DY today is the answer to 25A: LAMBOA, which should of course read LAMBDA. Anyway, not a bad puzzle otherwise. It kept me going for about 19m (the clock didn't stop because of the LAMBOA). I fairly raced through until I got down to the last four answers . I had ADDS TWO AND TWO instead of PUTS TWO AND TWO, so I needed to fix that for UNICORN to reveal itself. That gave me DOOM then pretty quickly. I finally put DISC and "over" together to discover DISC, and then CASE LAW dropped in to place. A scrappy week for me, but I'll be going into next week on r2ow. Let's hope Mike made his first Sweep of the Week down in Killarney.

Today's Crosaire Aria
24D: SHERIFF
Can you believe that Eric Clapton only had one chart-topper in the US? In 1974 he released a cover version of the Bob Marley classic I Shot the Sheriff, and ended up selling more copies of the song than Bob Marley did himself. Eric Clapton is a great guitar player, and this relatively recent performance includes an extended guitar solo that shows him at his finest, I think. Clapton's a real guitar hero, not a video game ...

The Clue of the Day
29A: Needs another fifty to be thought perfect (4)
This clue has been around the block in a number of related forms, but I like it because it reads so naturally. Thought (IDEA) needs another fifty (L) to be = IDEAL: perfect.

The Lookup of the Day
27A: AUK
An AUK is one of a whole family of seabirds that look rather like penguins in that they have black and white coloring, and an upright posture. Auks and penguins have different ancestors, and so the similarity in their appearance (and many habits) is caused by convergent evolution. In other words the environment caused similar traits to develop in different species (sort of like how birds and bats both developed wings).

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

Across
1: PUTS TWO AND TWO
10: WAISTED
It all goes to loss (WASTED) by the sound of it = WAISTED: narrower at the middle.
11: CASE LAW
CASE LAW is law that is based on prior judgments and precedent, rather on a constitution or statutes. I know I am missing something here. Where does the "by the sound of it" come in? Anyone?
12: DOOM
One's state of mind (MOOD) turns to = DOOM: disaster like this.
13: ELS(I)E
Some different (ELS-E) is around one (I) to make = ELSIE: her.
15: SHOO
You may put your foot in it (SHOE) by the sound of it, for = SHOO: such a send-off.
17: ETC
The rest of them (ETC) he'd (HE'D) = ETCHED: have drawn.
19: MEN-IAL
People (MEN) get confused ail (IAL) = MENIAL: at being in such lowly service.
21: GE(AR)ED
In the "edge" of this (GE-ED) the Academician, 'RA', turns (AR) = GEARED: to be suited for it.
22: MARRIED
23: NE(ST)ED
Need (NE-ED) around the street (ST) = NESTED: to have made oneself at home.
25: LAMB-DA
The ram perhaps (LAMB DA) = LAMBDA: that's the eleventh letter.
Hopefully the print edition will have the right answer, LAMBDA, and not LAMBOA as it is in the online edition ...
27: A-UK
A (A) on the United Kingdom, initially (UK) = AUK: bird.
An AUK is one of a family of diving sea birds ...
29: IDEA
To be thought (IDEA) needs another fifty (L) to be = IDEAL: perfect.
Nicely worded ...
30: ASP-IC
The serpent (ASP) I see (IC) = ASPIC: is jellied in this.
31: 'ER-GO
'Er ('ER) leave (GO) that's enough to make = ERGO: therefore.
34: NA(I'VE)TE
Into a ten (NA-TE) I've (I'VE) = NAIVETE: is so simple.
35: OUTWARD
OUTWARD Bound is a good organization for the young.
36: AFTER TWO WEEKS
Following the fort-night.

Down
2: U-NI-CORN
You, by the sound of it (U) of the North (NI) grain (CORN) for = UNICORN: one (horn) on a-head.
3: SITE
You may see this (SIGHT) by the sound of it = SITE: where the place will be built.
4: W-ADDLE
Double you (W) to the bad (ADDLE) = WADDLE: to go like this, ducky.
5: ARC-TIC
A little round (ARC) over a little jerk (TIC) = ARCTIC: that's cold.
6: DISC
Round here (DISC) one could get over (OVER) = DISCOVER: to find it.
7: WELSH-ER
He'll go off from Wales perhaps (WELSH-ER) = WELSHER: without paying ("pain" maybe).
8: TWO DIME-NSIONS
A couple of ten cents (TWO DIME-) is the "beginning" of the answer = TWO DIMENSIONS: length and breadth.
9: TWO OF DIAMONDS
14: STIRRUP
16: CAMEL
I think the clue just uses the "foot" to fit in with its neighboring clues ...
18: PEDAL
Nice enough little triplet of clues, albeit far from cryptic ...
20: LAD
He (LAD) with a "red" turn (DER) = LADDER: he may put his foot on it.
And there's the fourth foot in a row ...
21: GEL
One's limb (LEG) may be up, to being = GEL: a bit so solid.
24: SHE-RIFF
The woman (SHE) Arab (RIFF) may be = SHERIFF: an official elsewhere.
A RIFF is an Arab from Northern Morocco, as we saw in a Lookup of the Day back in August of last year ...
26: BAR-RACK
Where the bottles are in the pub (BAR RACK) = BARRACK: jeer.
27: AS-SENT
That's how (AS) it went (SENT) = ASSENT: yes.
28: K(I-MON)O
Got in the knockout (K-O) I, a Scotsman (I MON) = KIMONO: for her in Japan.
32: HERE
Overt (OVERT) this place (HERE) = OVER THERE: is at that place.
33: STYE
That's for the swine (STY) by the sound of it = STYE: an eye-sore.

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: PUTS TWO AND TWO
10: WAISTED
11: CASE LAW
12: DOOM
13: ELS(I)E
15: SHOO
17: ETC
19: MEN-IAL
21: GE(AR)ED
22: MARRIED
23: NE(ST)ED
25: LAMB-DA
27: A-UK
29: IDEA
30: ASP-IC
31: 'ER-GO
34: NA(I'VE)TE
35: OUTWARD
36: AFTER TWO WEEKS

Down
2: U-NI-CORN
3: SITE
4: W-ADDLE
5: ARC-TIC
6: DISC
7: WELSH-ER
8: TWO DIME-NSIONS
9: TWO OF DIAMONDS
14: STIRRUP
16: CAMEL
18: PEDAL
20: LAD
21: GEL
24: SHE-RIFF
26: BAR-RACK
27: AS-SENT
28: K(I-MON)O
32: HERE
33: STYE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14095 - 5 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last this week's WEB Crossword

Seeing as we are approaching the weekend, I finished up PLASTERED, after a long and hard look at that final PLASTERED clue. Coming to the end of a pretty scrappy week for me, I am on a hopeful r1ow, finishing in 16m 17s.

Today's Crosaire Aria
11D: SHAKO
I was surprised in researching today's Aria, to find out that Shakin' Stevens was the top-selling male pop singer of the 1980s. I didn't appreciate that he was that popular. Shakin' Stevens is yet another successful male singer from Wales, born Michael Barrett in Cardiff in 1948. He picked up his name with his first band Shakin' Stephens and the Sunsets. Shaky spent seven years with the Sunsets, getting little attention in the music world. Eventually, he was invited to portray the title character in the West End musical Elvis!, a move the broke up the band, although Shaky retained the name. At the end of 1979, it all took off for Shaky, starting with a number one cover version of the 1954 classic This Ole House, a hit for Rosemary Clooney. And he's still around performing today. To get the most enjoyment out of this clip, enjoy the antics and outfits of the Top of the Pops audience ...

The Clue of the Day
8D: Stuck on the outside to make it tight (9)
Today's selection is less a Clue of the Day, and more an Answer of the Day. I just love the word "plastered". If you get a lot of nicks you might get a lot of plasters stuck on your outside (PLASTERED), and if you've imbibed too much, you're "tight" and PLASTERED.
UPDATE: Mike has pointed out that the reference here might be PLASTERING of a wall inside or outside one's house. We don't do much of that over here in YankeeLand, so that went over my head!

The Lookup of the Day
11D: SHAKO
The Hungarian name for a peaked cap is csakos suveg, and this peaked cap was part of the uniform of the Hungarian Hussars. In the nineteenth century, variations peaked cap became part of many military uniforms around the world, although an alternative spelling was used, such as SHAKO, chako, czako, schako and tschako. As it is impractical on the field, it is now only given am outing on ceremonial occasions.

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

Across
1: M(IS-TIN)ESS
In a mess (M-ESS) [is (IS) the little louse, 'nit', back (TIN)] and = MISTINESS: befogged by it all.
9: DAN-IEL
And (DAN) "lie" to it (IEL) = DANIEL: one who would never fear a lion.
The reference is to DANIEL being delivered from the lion's den ...
10: BIG (STIF)F
In a large forte (BIG-F) fits up (STIF) = BIG STIFF: the corpse.
11: S-TRESS
The South's (S) hair (TRESS) = STRESS: get the strain of this.
12: AM-PERE
I'm (AM) one French father (PERE) = AMPERE: currently = I'm (AM) two of them, 'pair' by the sound of it (PERE).
14: A-C-HE
After a century (A C) he (HE) gets = ACHE: his pa-in.
15: SEDAN
SEDAN: an American saloon car, and the town in France through which the Germans invaded from Belgium during WWII, I just found out ...
16: ASP-IRE
The serpent (ASP) all the rage (IRE) to make = ASPIRE: aim.
18: TR-AMPLE
It's quite enough (-AMPLE) is the "last" part of the answer - TRAMPLE: to put one's foot down.
21: COM(PET)E
Come around (COM-E) dear (PET) and = COMPETE: take part.
Simple, sweet, and reads well ...
24: VE(ST)RY
Extremely (VE-RY) round the street (ST) or = VESTRY: in the church.
26: ERAS-E
Lots of time (ERAS) to get to the East (E) and = ERASE: remove it.
30: EELS
31: CENTRE
As one dismissed 'er (SENT 'ER) soundly = CENTRE: not all on edge.
32: D-INNER
Not a d-outer ("doubter" by the sound of it) (D-INNER) = DINNER: as a matter of course.
Nice ...
33: DIOCESAN ... anagram of "a coin" for "Des".
And a see (sound of the "sea") is DIOCESAN ...
34: REEF-ER
Free (REEF) with about, 're', to turn from (ER) = REEFER: the jacket.
A REEFER is also known as a reefing or reef jacket, and is worn at sea ...
35: LEND A HAND
Not actually give (LEND) at the end of arm's length (A HAND) = LEND A HAND: help.

Down
2: I'D-IO-MS
I had (I'D) ten of them (IO) in writing (MS) = IDIOMS: in a manner of speaking.
3: TAS-TES
Place Saturday, "Sat", on it's head (TAS) fo the start of the answer = TASTES: the flavor of them.
Hmm ...
UPDATE: Ignore my "hmm" of disapproval. Martina has set me straight on this clue. Place Saturday (SET SAT) on it's head = TASTED: for the flavor of them.
4: N-AILED
With the North (N) was not well (AILED) = NAILED: driven home that.
5: SAFE AND
Gets SOUND to make it all SAFE AND SOUND: all right.
6: CAS-TES
Turn the bag, 'sac', upside down (CAS-) for the start of the answer = CASTES: them in India.
Hmm, hmm ...
UPDATE: And ignore this "hmm" of disapproval as well. Martina is really watching my back today, and has pointed out that I missed the same thing as in TASTED above. Turn the bag (SET SAC) upside down = CASTES: for them in India.
7: FI-RESIDE
"If" it's up (FI) to live (RESIDE) = FIRESIDE: where it's warm.
Another short and sweet clue that read's well ...
8: PLASTERED
Such a lovely word ...
11: SH-A-KO
Be quiet (SH) it's a knockout (A KO) = SHAKO: so go on a-head.
A SHAKO is that tall, cylindrical military cap worn on ceremonial occasions, often with a feather sticking up, I just discovered ...
13: REAP
Not sow ("so" by the sound of it) but rather REAP.
17: STEVEDORE
Would the boy adore (STEVE ADORE) by the sound of it = STEVEDORE: to have the docks ("doc's" by the sound of it) work.
19: ASSENTED
It has a perfumed (A SCENTED) sound like this = ASSENTED: yes.
20: L(AYE)R
Yes (-AYE-) it's "inside" the answer = LAYER: the hen.
22: M-USE
It's grand (M) to employ (USE) = MUSE: think, and one of the nine MUSES.
23: RESID(U)E
To live, as in FI-RESIDE (RESIDE) about you (U) = RESIDUE: left.
25: R(EEL)ED
In the red (R-ED) one of EELS (EEL) = REELED: got around.
27: ACCORD
Stringy (A CORD) sound = ACCORD: have an agreeable.
28: EN(ME)SH
Among the hens (EN-SH) is it me (ME) = ENMESH: net.
29: OR(DA)IN
Or (OR) father (DA) in here (IN) = ORDAIN: make father.
Classic, and an old friend ...

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: M(IS-TIN)ESS
9: DAN-IEL
10: BIG (STIF)F
11: S-TRESS
12: AM-PERE
14: A-C-HE
15: SEDAN
16: ASP-IRE
18: TR-AMPLE
21: COM(PET)E
24: VE(ST)RY
26: ERAS-E
30: EELS
31: CENTRE
32: D-INNER
33: DIOCESAN
34: REEF-ER
35: LEND A HAND

Down
2: I'D-IO-MS
3: TAS-TES
4: N-AILED
5: SAFE AND
6: CAS-TES
7: FI-RESIDE
8: PLASTERED
11: SH-A-KO
13: REAP
17: STEVEDORE
19: ASSENTED
20: L(AYE)R
22: M-USE
23: RESID(U)E
25: R(EEL)ED
27: ACCORD
28: EN(ME)SH
29: OR(DA)IN

Answers to Crosaire No: 14094 - 4 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

We reached Crosaire Aria No: 300 today! Somehow, the Blog struggles on. Thanks you all for your support!

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

A good puzzle I thought, albeit with a disappointing end (for me, at least). I struggled the whole way really, opting from some very iffy answers, like DRAGGER and PASTERN. At the finish, I could only come up with FORMINGS for the clue that I discovered had the answer of COMMENTS. Lots of questions then, going into the commentary. Let's hope I get inspired!

Today's Crosaire Aria
I've imposed the tradition that it's Blogger's choice for the Aria when we knock off another century. For Aria No: 300 I am adding a relatively modern piece (for me): the Norah Jones song Come Away with Me from 2003. Of course, one of the reasons I like her music is that it has a "retro" feel, which comes from Norah's affinity for jazzy ballads and oldies, a love that she developed at young age. Norah Jones is actually the daughter of famed Indian sitar player, Ravi Shankar, but Norah ended up growing up with her mother. Come Away with Me was far from a commercial success. Although it did move up the charts to number eight in the UK, it didn't even get into the top 100 in the US. Regardless, I love this song ...

The Clue of the Day
6A: Count this? The blast this county (4)
I thought I had seen all possible combinations of clues for the answer Co. DOWN. But, M. Crosaire comes up with an inventive twist today for us. Count (COUNT) this county (DOWN) = COUNTDOWN, then "blast" off!

The Lookup of the Day
21A: PASTERN
Horses have fetlocks, the joint just above the foot. It isn't really an ankle per se, but rather corresponds to an upper knuckle or the ball of the foot in human terms. The two bones that are found below the fetlock and above the foot, they form the PASTERN. The PASTERN is equivalent in a human, to the two largest bones of the finger. In horses, the PASTERN bones, with the PASTERN joint between, serves as a shock absorber as the horse moves, absorbing the forces on the leg as it moves forward, often at high speed.

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

Across
1: F-I'VE TO FOUR
I have (I'VE) is the "last" part of the start of the answer (FIVE) to (TO) "for" the sound of it (FOUR) = FIVE TO FOUR: this time.
6: DOWN
Count (COUNT) this county (DOWN) = COUNTDOWN, then "blast" off!
Unusual twist for an oft-encountered answer ...
10: T(OX)IN
In the can (T-IN) the beef (OX) = TOXIN: is poisonous.
11: ONE (MO-MEN)T
In tone (ONE T) the medical people (MO MEN) = ONE MOMENT: single second.
12: CONCERNS
13: MO(T)OR
Othello (MO-OR) around a little tea (T) for = MOTOR: will this drive?
15: COUNTED
17: LINGERS ... anagram of "girl" and "sen".
19: REIGNED
It was wet (RAINED) sounded = REIGNED: as a rule.
21: PA'S-TERN
Daddy's (PA'S) bird (TERN) = PASTERN: is on the hoof.
As we all knew (OK, I didn't), the PASTERN is the part of a horse's foot, between the fetlock and the hoof ...
22: COLON
Perhaps punctually : <--- like that COLON, right there.
24: ALEHOUSE ... anagram of "he a" with "louse".
27: RECT-ANGLE
A cert (RECT) to a degree (ANGLE) = RECTANGLE: it's all square.
28: D-ROVE
Five hundred (D) and over (ROVE) = DROVE: was in charge of the herd.
29: SO-SO
Like this (SO) twice (SO) = SO-SO: fairly.
30: PRETTY WELL

Down
1: FAT-E
May be gross (FAT) the East (E) = FATE: is des-tiny.
2: VOX POPULI
The voice of the people, in Latin. It's a term used for interviews with the general public ...
3: TON-IC
It's weight (TON) sounds as if I see (IC) = TONIC: to pick one up.
4: FLOORED ... anagram of "for" the "dole".
5: UTENSIL ... anagram of "suit Len".
7: OVER-T
More than (OVER) a short tea (T) is = OVERT: open to view.
8: NOT PRESENT
What isn't (NOT) 21 down (PRESENT) = NOT PRESENT: away.
9: COMMENTS
I don't really get this one at all. Anyone?
UPDATE: Fiona stopped by to clear this one up for me. To begin (COMMENCE) the sound of this = COMMENTS: they're made. Nice clue! And thank you, Fiona!
14: SCORE CARDS
Twenty (SCORE) packs/decks (CARDS) = SCORE CARDS: for the marking?
I guess the reference is to scoring/marking ...
16: TEN-ON SAW
X (TEN) upon (ON) this in view (SAW) = TENON SAW: of it's teeth.
18: EVEN SCORE
Not so odd (EVEN) to be over twenty (SCORE) = EVEN SCORE.
20: DRAGGER
A DRAGGER is a fishing vessel that uses a dragnet, I just found out. It's as simple as that ...
21: PRESENT
23: LOCKS
Canals have quays (what sound like "keys") on either side of their LOCKS, and one would also have "keys" for LOCKS.
25: ODD-LY
Not EVEN (ODD) way of (-LY) = ODDLY.
26: HE'LL
The man will (HE'LL) = HELL: by no means heavenly.

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: F-I'VE TO FOUR
6: DOWN
10: T(OX)IN
11: ONE (MO-MEN)T
12: CONCERNS
13: MO(T)OR
15: COUNTED
17: LINGERS
19: REIGNED
21: PA'S-TERN
22: COLON
24: ALEHOUSE
27: RECT-ANGLE
28: D-ROVE
29: SO-SO
30: PRETTY WELL

Down
1: FAT-E
2: VOX POPULI
3: TON-IC
4: FLOORED
5: UTENSIL
7: OVER-T
8: NOT PRESENT
9: COMMENTS
14: SCORE CARDS
16: TEN-ON SAW
18: EVEN SCORE
20: DRAGGER
21: PRESENT
23: LOCKS
25: ODD-LY
26: HE'LL

Answers to Crosaire No: 14093 - 3 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

Well, that was a lovely little challenge, I thought. There were some very nice clues, but I am still thinking about NIL. I started my winning streak, said he optimistically, in 22m 52s.

Today's Crosaire Aria
28A: PENITENCE
Among the many collaborations between Elton John and his lyricist, Bernie Taupin, Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word is unusual in that Taupin really only "finished off" the words of this song. Elton presented him with a completed melody, and a set of usable lyrics. Who knows what was in Elton's mind at the time (he probably had a lot to be sorry for back in 1976!). I love a nicely used minor key, and as I've said before, Elton John sure does know how to play a piano. Elton John collaborated with the boy band, Blue, in 2002 to make a another hit version of Sorry ... but I hate the whole idea of the modern boy band, so here is the original version, with no poncing around ...

The Clue of the Day
11D: The other way it'll be a drag if one can't take any more (4,2)
Often a cryptic clue is like two clues in one, but this is perhaps more so than usual. A drag (PULL) if (IF) = PULL IF, the other way, it'll be = FULL UP: if one can't take any more.

The Lookup of the Day
12A: RATHE
The adjective RATHE comes from a Middle English word meaning "quick" or "eager". We tend to use it to describe a plant which blooms or bears fruit relatively early in the year. Here's a nice line from John Milton to illustrate:

"bring the rathe primrose that forsaken dies".

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

Across
1: SON-NET
Your boy (SON) he will catch (NET) = SONNET: this when gets to FOURTEEN (lines) in-verse(ly).
4: FOURTEEN
The number to get in line for SONNET.
9: MET-RIC
Came across (MET) the old force (RIC) = METRIC: but not by foot this way.
10: AG(IT-AT)ED
In an old way (AG-ED) with it at (IT AT) = AGITATED: shaken.
12: RATHE
Almost rathe-r = RATHE: early to be in flower.
We came across RATHE very recently. It means something that blooms or ripens early in the year ...
15: NIL
I wonder could this be a typo? Maybe it should read "N-ought to do for this"? Anyone?
16: ROOST
17: LIT-ANY
This made light (LIT) of any (ANY) = LITANY: response in it.
22: MYOPIA
To make it short in sight ("incite" this, by the sound of it).
24: NOVEL
27: SEE
28: PEN-IT-ENCE
Write it (PEN-IT-) is the "start" of the answer = PENITENT: in a sorry state.
31: WORKS
32: RE-IS-SUED
Seems the engineer (RE) has been taken to court (IS SUED) = REISSUED: but has come out again.
33: VE-NE'ER
Never (NE'ER) is "at the end" of the answer = VENEER: always on top.
34: S(IN)ISTER
In a relative setting (S-ISTER) in (IN) = SINISTER: threatening.
35: ASS-ESS
She may come to bray (ASS-ESS) = ASSESS: reckon.
There's another typo in this clue, albeit minor (rekcon = reckon) ...

Down
1: SOMBRE-RO
Not happy to start (SOMBRE) or turn (RO) = SOMBRERO: an a-head abroad.
2: N(OT)ATION
Among the people (N-ATION) "to" turn up (OT) = NOTATION: symbolically.
3: EMINENTLY
5: OUGHT
The South (S) should have (OUGHT) for this = SOUGHT: looked.
6: ROTOR
Up or down, it's a palindrome = ROTOR: turn with this.
7: EN-TREE
Leaves there (-TREE) is the "last" part of the answer = ENTREE: of course (at a meal).
8: NODDED
11: FILL UP
A drag (PULL) if (IF) = PULLIF, the other way, it'll be = FILL UP: one can't take any more.
Very nice ...
14: ERA
Plenty of time (ERA) to be sure (SURE) for = ERASURE: removal.
18: T-EASED
It got less (-EASED) is the "last" part of the answer = TEASED: in torment.
19: NINE WEE-K'S
9 (NINE) x k (WEE K'S) given = NINE WEEKS: so much time.
20: OVER HERE
To eavesdrop (OVERHEAR) by the sound of it = OVER HERE: this is the place.
Also very nice.
21: CLOSURES ... anagram of "cure" the "loss".
23: ONE
Beg (BEG) you (ONE) = BEGONE: this to ask to go away.
25: OPERAS
The car (CAR) the men follow (MEN) for = CARMEN: one of them OPERAS.
26: ENSIGN
An ENSIGN is a junior officer, and a flag.
29: T-ASKS
After tea (T) is questionable (ASKS) for them = TASKS: sort of work.
"Soft" is yet another typo, and should read "sort" ...
30: NI(E)CE
Pleasant (NI-CE) around the east (E) = NIECE, which by the sound of it is "Nice" in the south of France.

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: SON-NET
4: FOURTEEN
9: MET-RIC
10: AG(IT-AT)ED
12: RATHE
15: NIL
16: ROOST
17: LIT-ANY
22: MYOPIA
24: NOVEL
27: SEE
28: PEN-IT-ENCE
31: WORKS
32: RE-IS-SUED
33: VE-NE'ER
34: S(IN)ISTER
35: ASS-ESS

Down
1: SOMBRE-RO
2: N(OT)ATION
3: EMINENTLY
5: OUGHT
6: ROTOR
7: EN-TREE
8: NODDED
11: FILL UP
14: ERA
18: T-EASED
19: NINE WEE-K'S
20: OVER HERE
21: CLOSURES
23: ONE
25: OPERAS
26: ENSIGN
29: T-ASKS
30: NI(E)CE

Answers to Crosaire No: 14092 - 2 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

I missed one, and it was a clue we've had before, so once again I am kicking myself. I could come up with nothing for BAREFACED. I thought the answer might end with -ABED (as in "lying there") so I was completely on the wrong track. But what a nice puzzle, eh? I think M. Crosaire is on a roll lately.

Today's Crosaire Aria
23A: TWISTS
We have a real treat today for our Aria. We get to hear one of my favorite songs, sung by my favorite group, in a video clip from one of my favorite movies. The brilliant film maker, John Hughes wrote the screenplay for Ferris Bueller's Day Off in less than a week. The film itself was shot over several months, on a relatively tiny budget of $6 million dollars, even for back in 1985. The parade scene in downtown Chicago was filmed on two Saturdays. On one Saturday, there was a real parade going on, and the crew added a "Ferris" float without telling any of the parade dignitaries or the crowd. On the second Saturday, a parade set was set up for filming, and Chicago residents were invited to come and "be in a John Hughes movie". Thousands turned up, and that applause you hear in this clip, as Ferris finishes his song, it's spontaneous and real. Oh, and a piece of John Hughes trivia ... he also made The Breakfast Club, and used the same school for backgrounds in both movies. Here are the Beatles, Matthew Broderick, and the people of Chicago, singing Twist and Shout ...

The Clue of the Day
10A: Only a bit of them is the short answer to the supporters (9)
Here it is, a classic clue structure, that reads so well. Only a bit of them (PART) is (IS) the short answer to (ANS) = PARTISANS: the supporters. Simplicity like that is hard to achieve, trust me ...

The Lookup of the Day
19A: OLIVINE
The two minerals forsterite and fayalite, are found together in what is called a "solid solution". This solid solution is called OLIVINE, and within the OLIVINE family of minerals there can be different ratios of forsterite to fayalite. Typically OLIVINE is green in color, due to the presence of traces of nickel. This olive-green color gives the mineral its name. Particularly clear specimens of OLIVINE are valued as gemstones, and these semi-precious forms are called peridot, the French word for OLIVINE.

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

Across
1: EXTRA-DITE
Just another (EXTRA) "tied" in a knot (DITE) = EXTRADITE: get it out.
9: SAT-IRE
That's only weekend (SAT) bad temper (IRE) = SATIRE: make fun of it.
10: PART-IS-AN
Only a bit of them (PART) is (IS) the short answer to (ANS) = PARTISANS: the supporters.
Nice one ...
11: C-HAS-'ER
See (C) this has (HAS) 'er ('ER) = CHASER: jumping off, as in a steeple-CHASER.
12: RE-LEGATES
About (RE) the envoys (LEGATES) = RELEGATES: this puts them down.
13: GORGES
They sound gorgeous-ly = GORGES: deep.
17: STY
Pa (PA) the swine here (STY) could make = PASTY: food.
19: OLIV(IN)E
It has a stone (OLIV-E) around in (IN) for = OLIVINE: a stone.
OLIVINE is a mineral, which when of gem quality is called peridot, I just learned ...
20: AB-STAIN
The seaman is able (AB) the bits of the satin (STAIN) = ABSTAIN: not to take.
21: ARM
Should-er be where this comes from = ARM.
23: TWI(S)TS
Such idiots (TWI-TS) about the South (S) to be = TWISTS: they turn.
27: I'M-PROMPT-U
I am (I'M) to give your line (PROMPT) to you (U) - IMPROMPTU: off the cuff.
28: NO(I)SES
In the snouts (NO-SES) is one (I) = NOISES: by the sound of them.
29: BAREFACED
Shaven (BAREFACED) while (BAREFACED) lying there,
30: N(I-NET)Y
In New York initially (N-Y) I catch (I NET) = NINETY: a number.
31: STATU(ET)TE
In a law (STATU-TE) ET (ET) = STATUETTE: little model.

Down
2: X-RAYED ... anagram of "X" with "a dry E".
3: RAT-HER
Pitch, 'tar', up (RAT) to her (HER) = RATHER: a bit.
4: DIS-MAY
Sidney, 'Sid', is uppish (DIS) over a month (MAY) = DISMAY: frightfully.
5: TAN-GENT
Brown (TAN) Mister (GENT) is = TANGENT: so touchy.
Classic ...
6: BATHHOUSE
7: FIRST GEAR
You can only go a little in FIRST GEAR, which is no way "neutral".
8: RE-PRESENT
Just about (RE) now (PRESENT) for this = REPRESENT: stand in.
14: S(OFTEN)ING
To sing (S-ING) about this frequently (OFTEN) = SOFTENING: getting not so hard.
15: DI-VISIONS
I would, 'I'd', turn (DI) to glorious sights of (VISIONS) = DIVISIONS: bits of the army.
16: SIX TWENTY
Half a dozen (SIX) is the score (TWENTY) = SIX TWENTY: that's when!
Lovely ...
17: SEA
Under water (SEA) your son (SON) = SEASON: time like this.
18: YAM
The end of DIS-MAY (MAY) up = YAM: eat (this).
22: RAM-PART
Mutton (RAM) a bit of (PART) = RAMPART = it's inclined (RAMP) to need skill (ART).
And, a RAMPART might be "tough" to get past, I suppose ...
24: PRIEST ... anagram of "stripe".
25: I'M-PALE
I have lost color (I'M PALE) = IMPALE = so mischievous (IMP) a drink (ALE).
26: S(TREE)T
Leaves there (-TREE-) is the "middle" of the answer = STREET: the road.

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: EXTRA-DITE
9: SAT-IRE
10: PART-IS-AN
11: C-HAS-'ER
12: RE-LEGATES
13: GORGES
17: STY
19: OLIV(IN)E
20: AB-STAIN
21: ARM
23: TWI(S)TS
27: I'M-PROMPT-U
28: NO(I)SES
29: BAREFACED
30: N(I-NET)Y
31: STATU(ET)TE

Down
2: X-RAYED
3: RAT-HER
4: DIS-MAY
5: TAN-GENT
6: BATHHOUSE
7: FIRST GEAR
8: RE-PRESENT
14: S(OFTEN)ING
15: DI-VISIONS
16: SIX TWENTY
17: SEA
18: YAM
22: RAM-PART
24: PRIEST
25: I'M-PALE
26: S(TREE)T

Answers to Crosaire No: 14091 - 1 Mar 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

The feedback I've had so far is that yesterday's WEB Crossword was on the tough side. Well, I don't feel so bad, because M. Crosaire also served up what I think is a rough puzzle. It's very fair, and very solvable, but boy it gave me a hard time, and eventually beat me. I had nothing for EXEUNT (kicking myself for my lack of a non-classical education, and a terrible memory) and I tossed in a wayward MOOLAH for WEALTH (kicking myself again, for missing the simple anagram of "the law"). All in all, a humbling experience, with an excellent puzzle.

Today's Crosaire Aria
16D: YELL
There are a few popular songs that have been labelled as "rock anthems". The list would include We Will Rock You and We Are the Champions by Queen, and Cum on Feel the Noize by Slade. They have that primal sound and simplicity of structure, and perhaps a basic message in the lyrics. I would add Shout by Tears for Fears to the list of my favorite rock anthems. It's the kind of song for which you just have to crank up the volume, and bring the house down ...

The Clue of the Day
18D: Add nine and it all may have to be taken out (8)
There are a number of classically structured clues in today's puzzle, that all read rather well. I choose this one as perhaps my favorite. As you can see, it reads very nicely, very naturally. Looking closer, there is a cryptic definition, and a non-cryptic definition, and nothing else. There are no wasted words. Add (APPEND) nine (IX) and it all = APPENDIX: may have to be taken out.

The Lookup of the Day
9A: EXEUNT
Quite simply, the latin verb exire means "to leave", and the Latin for "they leave" is EXEUNT. In a theatrical script, EXEUNT can be used as a stage direction meaning "they leave". More specifically, the direction can read exeunt omnes, meaning that all the actors on the stage leave, "they all leave".

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

Across
8: CAM-BRIAN
Almost came-e (CAM) Brian (BRIAN) = CAMBRIAN: from Wales.
Excellent start ...
9: EXEUNT
As we've seen before exeunt omnes is a Latin expression, a common term in the theater meaning "they all exit".
10: S(PORT)S
In the ship (S-S) wine (PORT) for = SPORTS: the games.
Nice one too ...
11: RECALLED
What the ELEPHANT will always have done.
12: PEDDLE
Go on your bike (PEDAL) by the sound of it = PEDDLE: for a sale.
13: ELEPHANT ... anagram of "help" in the "ante".
15: LYRE ... anagram of "lyre".
17: MAN-DATE
A girl might be taken out on a DATE with a MAN = MANDATE.
Clever ...
19: NIGHTLY
Sir (KNIGHTLY) by the sound of it = NIGHTLY: daily ("Daly" by the sound of it) no.
Also clever ...
22: LESS
With this (LESS) get on it (ON) = LESSON: class.
24: S(PARSE)LY
In a sly (S-LY) do grammar (PARSE) = SPARSELY: but patchy way.
27: LIA-IS-'E
Sick, 'ail', up (LIA) is 'e (IS 'E) = LIAISE: of being a go-between.
29: IN PENCIL
Write (sounds as "right") this way = IN PENCIL: and right for removals (you can rub it out).
30: NEARLY
Almost ("all most" sound).
31: BICEPS
Not the sort of mussels Molly Malone would have had for sale (MUSCLES) by the armful = BICEPS.
32: SEE THING
Some thing at the back of EYE LASHES, 'eye' (SEE THING) for = SEETHING: boils.

Down
1: S-AMPLE
Plenty (-AMPLE) is the "end" of the answer = SAMPLE: only a little.
2: OBTRUDED ... anagram of "'e doubt" & "Dr.".
To OBTRUDE is to push one's ideas, or oneself, on others without invitation.
3: MISS-PELT
The girl (MISS) on her skin (PELT) = MISSPELT: got something wrong.
Lovely reading clue ...
4: ANGRIER
More (a)cross.
5: RE'S-CUE
It's the engineer's (RE'S) sing (CUE) for this = RESCUE: save.
This one read's even better ...
6: WEALTH ... anagram of "the law".
7: INFERNAL ... anagram of "learn" with a "fin".
14: LEN'S
Leonard is (LEN'S) = LENS: is a big boy now if you see him through this (magnifying) LENS.
16: YELL
To do this (YELL) with an ow! (OW) is = YELLOW: cowardly.
18: APPEND-IX
Add (APPEND) nine (IX) and it all = APPENDIX: may have to be taken out.
The hits keep on coming ...
20: I-SLANDER
I am not just (I SLANDER) for = ISLANDER: him out there.
21: HEADACHE
Pa-in on top.
23: EYELASH
I do my beating (I LASH) sound = EYELASH: in a hairy sort of way.
25: R(EEL)ED
Sounds as if you may take it as "read" (R-ED) with the twist in (EEL) = REELED: and the line wound in.
I am not sure about "twist" mapping into EEL, but it's the best I could come up with ...
26: EXCISE
28: SA(LIN)E
With/in the sea (SA-E) nothing, 'nil', up (LIN) = SALINE: salt.

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: CAM-BRIAN
9: EXEUNT
10: S(PORT)S
11: RECALLED
12: PEDDLE
13: ELEPHANT
15: LYRE
17: MAN-DATE
19: NIGHTLY
22: LESS
24: S(PARSE)LY
27: LIA-IS-'E
29: IN PENCIL
30: NEARLY
31: BICEPS
32: SEE THING

Down
1: S-AMPLE
2: OBTRUDED
3: MISS-PELT
4: ANGRIER
5: RE'S-CUE
6: WEALTH
7: INFERNAL
14: LEN'S
16: YELL
18: APPEND-IX
20: I-SLANDER
21: HEADACHE
23: EYELASH
25: R(EEL)ED
26: EXCISE
28: SA(LIN)E

WEB Crossword No: 045 - 28 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Print today's WEB puzzle (spoiler alert ... today's solution and clue explanations are included on a second page!)
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues.

Today's puzzle is rated 4/5 in terms of difficulty, which is the hardest we will get to this month seeing as the onset of March tomorrow resets the "difficulty clock". I think this crossword is definitely tougher than last week's, so let's hope you agree with my 4/5 grade.

And a reminder ... the Sunday slot is still open for anyone who wants to post his or her own, original crossword. Just contact me and I will help you with the mechanics of compiling and posting.

Across
1 Active sprays that are arsenic-free (4)
4 A friend finishes off this morning's seaweed mix (10)
9 Quickly lowers oneself to stay overnight at seedy joints (5-5)
10 Jean tells me five went under (4)
11 501 German Street E. (it's by a river in Ireland) (8)
13 Victoria was not, this morning, employed (6)
14 Listen to your ex cheer! (7)
16 Influence a type of hearing for Polly's complaint (4,3)
18 They say that's God willing eight to go off the beaten path (7)
19 Frees something partially sunk, not submerged (7)
21 Europeans go to Ardee the wrong way, and this slows things down (6)
23 Five hundred, gone from Alfred's company, without a roof over their head (8)
25 In leiu of in lieu of in lieu of (4)
26 Being early, Doctor, I'd mine to go (2,4,4)
28 Advanced again, but not as much, showing no mercy (10)
29 CD choice for one of the strings (4)

Down
2 Carry on showing awkward reserve in gym class (9)
3 Agreed both of you should start (3)
4 Check for a uniform Detective Inspector shirt (5)
5 Maybe buy, call or save, slowly or quickly (6)
6 The maternity doctor's quick before ten, in general (9)
7 Miss, take that guy, you hear? And dance the wrong direction (11)
8 The XS at the end of the rig I.D. (5)
12 There, take care of the corrupt he's mourning (7,4)
15 Out of Italy's three thousand ones, the first of them is radical (9)
17 Doctors relocate about a thousand that recently arrived (9)
20 The confusion might be right after the tango (6)
22 It's about ... about not finishing that hymn like Anne and Fran (5)
24 Florence's saint used to take food away from the canine? Perhaps! (5)
27 The jerk sends me a tongue-in-cheek text (3)

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 my puzzles more challenging and more fun!

Across
1 Active sprays that are arsenic-free (4)
SPRY
There is no arsenic (AS) in the SPR-a-Y-s = SPRY: active.
4 A friend finishes off this morning's seaweed mix (10)
AM-ALGA-MATE
Morning's seaweed (AM-ALGA) a friend finishes off this (MATE) = AMALGAMATE: mix.
9 Quickly lowers oneself to stay overnight at seedy joints (5-5)
CRASH-DIVES
To stay overnight (CRASH) at seedy joints (DIVES) = CRASH-DIVES: quickly lowers oneself.
10 Jean tells me five went under (4)
SANK
Jean (from France) tells me five (CINQ) and I hear = SANK: went under.
11 501 German Street E. (it's by a river in Ireland) (8)
L-EIN-ST-E-R
50 (L) 1 German (EIN) Street (ST) E. (E) it's by a river (R) = LEINSTER: in Ireland.
13 Victoria was not, this morning, employed (6)
AM-USED
This morning (AM) employed (USED) = AMUSED: (Queen) Victoria was not AMUSED.
14 Listen to your ex cheer! (7)
HEAR-TEN
Listen to (HEAR) your ex, 'X' (TEN) = HEARTEN: cheer.
16 Influence a type of hearing for Polly's complaint (4,3)
BIRD FLU
Influenza type ("influence a type" of hearing) for = BIRD FLU: Polly's complaint.
18 They say that's God willing eight to go off the beaten path (7)
DEVIATE
That's "God Willing" (DV) eight (8) = DV8, they say, and I hear as = DEVIATE: to go off the beaten path.
19 Frees something partially sunk, not submerged (7)
UNKNOTS
Partially "s-UNK NOT S-ubmerged" = UNKNOTS: frees something.
21 Europeans go to Ardee the wrong way, and this slows things down (6)
DROGUE
Europeans (EU) go (GO) to Ardee (RD) = EUGORD, the wrong way = DROGUE: and this slows things down (a sea anchor).
23 Five hundred, gone from Alfred's company, without a roof over their head (8)
ALFRESCO
Alfred's company (alfre-D-s co) five hundred gone from (-D) = ALFRESCO: without a roof over their head.
25 In leiu of in lieu of in lieu of (4)
TYPO
Typing by mistake, "In leiu of" in lieu of "in lieu of" is a TYPO.
26 Being early, Doctor, I'd mine to go (2,4,4)
IN GOOD TIME
Doctor "I'd mine to go" = IN GOOD TIME: being early.
28 Advanced again, but not as much, showing no mercy (10)
RE-LENT-LESS
Again (RE-) advanced (LENT) but not as much (LESS) = RELENTLESS: showing no mercy.
29 CD choice for one of the strings (4)
C-OR-D
CD choice (C OR D) for = CORD: one of the strings.

Down
2 Carry on showing awkward reserve in gym class (9)
P(ERSEVER)E
In gym class (P-E) awkward "reserve" (ERSEVER) showing = PERSEVERE: carry on.
3 Agreed both of you should start (3)
YE-S
Both of you (YE) s-hould start (S) = YES: agreed.
4 Check for a uniform Detective Inspector shirt (5)
A-U-DI-T
A (A) uniform (U) Detective Inspector (DI) shirt (T) for = AUDIT: check.
5 Maybe buy, call or save, slowly or quickly (6)
AD-VERB
Maybe "buy", "call" or "save", a VERB used in an AD (AD VERB) = ADVERB: maybe "slowly" or "quickly".
6 The maternity doctor's quick before ten, in general (9)
GE(STAT-IO)N
In general (GE-N) doctor's quick before ten (STAT-IO) = GESTATION: the maternity.
7 Miss, take that guy, you hear? And dance the wrong direction (11)
MISGUI-DANCE
Miss, take that guy, 'miss-guy', you hear as (MIS-GUI) and dance (DANCE) = MISGUIDANCE: the wrong direction.
8 The XS at the end of the rig I.D. (5)
TENS-E
The XS (TENS) at the end of th-e (E) = TENSE: rig-id.
12 There, take care of the corrupt he's mourning (7,4)
NURSING HOME
Corrupt "he's mourning" = NURSING HOME: there, take care of.
15 Out of Italy's three thousand ones, the first of them is radical (9)
EX-TRE-M-IS-T
Out of (EX-) Italy's three (TRE) thousand (M) ones (IS) the first of t-hem (T) is = EXTREMIST: radical.
17 Doctors relocate about a thousand that recently arrived (9)
LATECO(M)ER
Doctors "relocate" (LATECO-ER) about a thousand (M) = LATECOMER: that recently arrived.
20 The confusion might be right after the tango (6)
T-ANGLE
After the tango (T) might be right (ANGLE) = TANGLE: the confusion.
22 It's about ... about not finishing that hymn like Anne and Fran (5)
R(HYM)E
It's about (R-E) about not finishing that hym-n (HYM) = RHYME: like "Anne" and "Fran".
24 Florence's saint used to take food away from the canine? Perhaps! (5)
FLO'S-S
Florence's (FLO'S) saint (S) = FLOSS: used to take food away from the canine (tooth) perhaps.
27 The jerk sends me a tongue-in-cheek text (3)
T-I-C
The phone-texting abbreviation for "tongue-in-cheek" is TIC: the jerk.

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

Across
1 Active sprays that are arsenic-free (4)
SPRY
4 A friend finishes off this morning's seaweed mix (10)
AM-ALGA-MATE
9 Quickly lowers oneself to stay overnight at seedy joints (5-5)
CRASH-DIVES
10 Jean tells me five went under (4)
SANK
11 501 German Street E. (it's by a river in Ireland) (8)
L-EIN-ST-E-R
13 Victoria was not, this morning, employed (6)
AM-USED
14 Listen to your ex cheer! (7)
HEAR-TEN
16 Influence a type of hearing for Polly's complaint (4,3)
BIRD FLU
18 They say that's God willing eight to go off the beaten path (7)
DEVIATE
19 Frees something partially sunk, not submerged (7)
UNKNOTS
21 Europeans go to Ardee the wrong way, and this slows things down (6)
DROGUE
23 Five hundred, gone from Alfred's company, without a roof over their head (8)
ALFRESCO
25 In leiu of in lieu of in lieu of (4)
TYPO
26 Being early, Doctor, I'd mine to go (2,4,4)
IN GOOD TIME
28 Advanced again, but not as much, showing no mercy (10)
RE-LENT-LESS
29 CD choice for one of the strings (4)
C-OR-D
Down
2 Carry on showing awkward reserve in gym class (9)
P(ERSEVER)E
3 Agreed both of you should start (3)
YE-S
4 Check for a uniform Detective Inspector shirt (5)
A-U-DI-T
5 Maybe buy, call or save, slowly or quickly (6)
AD-VERB
6 The maternity doctor's quick before ten, in general (9)
GE(STAT-IO)N
7 Miss, take that guy, you hear? And dance the wrong direction (11)
MISGUI-DANCE
8 The XS at the end of the rig I.D. (5)
TENS-E
12 There, take care of the corrupt he's mourning (7,4)
NURSING HOME
15 Out of Italy's three thousand ones, the first of them is radical (9)
EX-TRE-M-IS-T
17 Doctors relocate about a thousand that recently arrived (9)
LATECO(M)ER
20 The confusion might be right after the tango (6)
T-ANGLE
22 It's about ... about not finishing that hymn like Anne and Fran (5)
R(HYM)E
24 Florence's saint used to take food away from the canine? Perhaps! (5)
FLO'S-S
27 The jerk sends me a tongue-in-cheek text (3)
T-I-C

Answers to Crosaire No: 14090 - 27 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

It's the end of a short month, so we didn't have enough days to get to a full-on 5/5 WEB Crossword. However, Sunday's 4/5 offering is no walk over. It becomes available at midnight tonight, Ireland time, so stop by anytime Sunday and give it a go ...

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

If anyone finishes today's puzzle, my hat is well and truly off to them. It is doable, I think, just not by me! Not only did I have nothing for SKUA and THICKEN, I had FLY AT HALF-MAST instead of ALL AT HALF-MAST. Still, I feel good about Monday. For me, the glass is always HALF full!

Today's Crosaire Aria
20D: LED
English band Led Zeppelin earned themselves the name of the "the biggest band in the world" in the late sixties and early seventies. They lived an extravagant lifestyle, with a private jet, renting of whole floors in hotels, and epic stories of drugs and debauchery. There may have been some exaggeration about their lifestyle, but the brilliance of at least one of their records is unquestioned. Stairway to Heaven was written and released in 1971. The people of Belfast were the first to hear the song, in a Led Zeppelin performance in the Ulster Hall in March of that year. Apparently, the audience was bored to tears during the 7m 55s it took to perform Stairway, as they were waiting to hear songs they recognized. Well, given the benefit of hindsight, and almost forty years of listening, I think the song is fabulous ...

The Clue of the Day
11A: It's not important whether there are four or six in the court case (7)
I think this is the best clue that M. Crosaire has come up with in a long time. He has two ways to give us the answer, and uses them both:
In the court case (TR-IAL) there are four (IV) = TRIVIAL
In the court case (TRI-AL) there are six (VI) = TRIVIAL
It doesn't matter which of two options we use, because both point us to TRIVIAL: it's not important, it just does not matter which we use. Brilliant!

The Lookup of the Day
15A: SKUA
A SKUA is a plucky little sea bird, predatory in nature, and willing to take on much bigger species to get itself a meal. They qualify as "kleptoparasites", a lovely term I think, meaning that they often steal food that has been caught by other birds. The SKUA nests as far north as the Arctic, but also in more temperate climes. They are long-distance migrants and have been sighted on the other side of the world at the South Pole. The name SKUA comes from skugvur, the name given to the species of SKUA native to the island of Skuvoy in the Faroes. The SKUA also gave its name to the Blackburn B-24 Skua aircraft, which was designed in the thirties and saw action at the start of WWII.

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

Across
1. FOUR HALF-PINTS
FOUR HALF-PINTS are also called quarts ("quartz" by the sound of it).
10: I'M-PRESS
Being a journalist (I'M PRESS) = IMPRESS: I make you feel the squeeze.
11: TR(IV)IAL
In the court case (TR-IAL) there are four (IV) = TRIVIAL
In the court case (TRI-AL) there are six (VI) = TRIVIAL
Either method works, using four or six, it's not important, it's TRIVIAL.
Brilliant, absolutely brilliant ...
12: BASS
A ten-or is higher than a BASS, and a BASS is a fish.
13: AS-PEN
Would sound like (AS) a writer (PEN) = ASPEN: shaky (as in a shaking or quaking aspen).
15: SKUA
A spike (SKEWER) with the sound of = SKUA: it flies.
A SKUA is a predatory, gull-like sea bird, it says here ...
17: TAR
The pest (RAT) back there = TAR: pitch this.
19: TAR-SAL
17 across (TAR) Sarah (SAL) makes = TARSAL: bony.
21: STANCH ... anagram of "chants".
22: CENTAUR
Perfume or (SCENT OR) the sound of = CENTAUR: a horseman.
Nice one ...
23: EN(SU)ED
The need (EN-ED) about to get "us" back (SU) = ENSUED: followed.
25: MUSSEL
So strong (MUSCLE) make it sound = MUSSEL: shell.
27: ELF
SH! (SH) the sprite (ELF) that could make = SHELF: stick out.
29: HOUR
Yours and mine (OUR) sounds as if = HOUR: comes in minute bits.
30: SNEAK ... anagram of "snake".
31: PALM
34: LEFT ARM
It's not right (LEFT) to have PALM at the end of it (ARM) = LEFT ARM.
35: R-ALLIES
One's friends (-ALLIES) are the "last" part of the answer, RALLIES: recovers.
36: HE'S HALF-WITTED

Down
2: OPPOSER
A hard question (A POSER) by the sound of it = OPPOSER: not for it.
Simple, but reads well ...
3: REED
If after a century (C) a rush (REED) = CREED: I believe, it starts with.
4: ASSIST
5: FAT-HER
Too much (FAT) of her (HER) may get = FATHER: he in church.
6: I-RIS
I (I) get the knight, 'sir', up (RIS) = IRIS: a blooming flag.
There is such a flower as the flag iris, an old friend here ...
7: THICKEN
He might get ill (SICKEN) with a lisp = THICKEN.
Clever enough ...
8: HIS BETTER HALF
FATHER's mate is HIS BETTER HALF, a gambler perhaps.
9: ALL AT HALF-MAST
Where flags are during the mourning ("morning" by the sound of it).
14: PANT-ILE
Be out of breath (PANT) and lie (ILE) = PANTILE: on the roof.
A PANTILE, I just found out, is a special type of roofing tile, with an S-shaped cross-section, so that each tile interlocks with its neighbors.
16: FACES
They all go on a-head.
18: ST(R)UM
Must (STUM) be around the capital of R-ussia (R) = STRUM: so to play without feeling.
20: LED
Heavy (LEAD) sounds = LED: for one to have been in charge.
21: SUM
Just a few (SOME) by the sound of it = SUM: this adds up.
24: SOUFFLE ... anagram of "fuel's of".
26: SEASIDE
27: ENAM-EL
Make your hair, 'mane', stand on end (ENAM-) is the "start" of the answer, ENAMEL: on the surface.
28: FAR-ROW
With a distant (FAR) racket (ROW) = FARROW: how the pig may get young.
To FARROW is to produce a little of pigs ...
32: RASH
33: FLAT

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. FOUR HALF-PINTS
10: I'M-PRESS
11: TR(IV)IAL
12: BASS
13: AS-PEN
15: SKUA
17: TAR
19: TAR-SAL
21: STANCH
22: CENTAUR
23: EN(SU)ED
25: MUSSEL
27: ELF
29: HOUR
30: SNEAK
31: PALM
34: LEFT ARM
35: R-ALLIES
36: HE'S HALF-WITTED

Down
2: OPPOSER
3: REED
4: ASSIST
5: FAT-HER
6: I-RIS
7: THICKEN
8: HIS BETTER HALF
9: ALL AT HALF-MAST
14: PANT-ILE
16: FACES
18: ST(R)UM
20: LED
21: SUM
24: SOUFFLE
26: SEASIDE
27: ENAM-EL
28: FAR-ROW
32: RASH
33: FLAT

Answers to Crosaire No: 14089 - 26 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

So, I am back on my winning ways, at a humble r1ow. Today's puzzle was free of controversy, I thought (unlike yesterday's!). I brought it home in a breathtaking (for me) 13m 05s.

Today's Crosaire Aria
22A: ASPECT
I've seen a lot of Andrew Lloyd Weber musicals over the years, and must admit I'm a bit jaded by them at this stage. Having said that, he does compose some beautiful songs. One of his works that I have not seen, is Aspects of Love. The one big hit song to come out of the show is Love Changes Everything, most recognizable when sung by the original lead, Michael Ball. I was surprised to discover just now that Michael Ball is married to Cathy McGowan, of Ready Steady Go! fame. Oh, I remember Cathy McGowan ...

The Clue of the Day
28A: All and not all? Good for you! (9)
I do like a clue that reads well, and this one has a lovely ring to it. All (WHOLE) and not all (SOME) = WHOLESOME: good for you.

The Lookup of the Day
24A: TENON
A mortise and TENON joint is an age-old method of joining two pieces of wood, usually when lengths of wood are to lie at right-angles to each other. The end of one piece of wood is shaped so that is has a projecting "block", and the end of the other piece of wood is chiseled out so that it has a corresponding hole into which the "block" can fit. The "block" is called a TENON, and the hole is the mortise. To facilitate the precise shaping of the TENON, a special saw was developed called a TENON saw. Such a saw has fine teeth, and a stiffening rib along the back, opposite the teeth (hence, a TENON saw is a type of "backsaw"). I've always had a TENON saw, and yet have never made TENON joint in my life!

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

Across
1: F-RIGHT
One will not be left (-RIGHT) is the "last" part of the answer, FRIGHT: one fears.
4: FINE ARTS
9: ORANGE ... anagram of "one rag".
10: MI-IN-M(IS)E
I'm, the back (MI) in, the back (NI) and "is" in "me" (M-IS-E) = MINIMISE: to make the least of it.
12: S-NAIL
When driven (-NAIL) is the "last" part of the answer, SNAIL: won't go fast.
13: COMPETENT
15: ASH
This (ASH) ore (ARE) = ASHORE: is not to be found in the sea.
16: A-LIEN
One is a (A) right (LIEN) = ALIEN: sort of a foreigner.
A LIEN is the right that one has to retain someone's property until a debt is paid ...
17: ENTREE
I'll need help with this one. I can see the reference to a meal (of "course"), but I don't get the "sounds as if it would be last". Anyone?
UPDATE: Martina understood it! Sounds of would, 'wood' (-TREE) is the "last" part of the answer, ENTREE: a "course".
22: ASP-ECT
It's poisonous (ASP) etc. (ECT) = ASPECT: in view of this.
24: TEN-ON
With X (TEN) upon it (ON) = TENON: saw this.
A TENON saw is designed to cut tenons for tenon joints ...
27: TIE
Draw = TIE: knot ("not" this sound).
28: WHOLE-SOME
All (WHOLE) and not all (SOME) = WHOLESOME: good for you.
And good for us ... nice clue ...
31: RAT-HE
Rodent (RAT) male (HE) = RATHE: blooming early.
Something that is RATHE blossoms or ripens early in the year, it says here ...
32: SAT-I-A-TED
Following Saturday the first (SAT I) a boy (A TED) = SATIATED: has had enough of it.
33: CAN-ALS
Is able (CAN) Sal (ALS) = CANALS: to barge along here.
34: POLE STAR
Chopin was a POLE and a STAR, and the POLE STAR is so heavenly.
35: U-NI-SON
You (U) of Ulster (NI) child (SON) = UNISON: altogether.

Down
1: FOOL'S-CAP
(It) goes on top of an idiot (FOOL'S CAP) = FOOLSCAP: one SHEET.
Nicely done ...
2: IN A PANIC
We can see the "twisted" "pain" (PANI) IN A-PANI-C = IN A PANIC: frightfully.
3: HIGHLANDS
The HIGHLANDS of Scotland are not so low ("solo" by the sound of it).
5: I'D-IO-M
I had (I'D) ten (IO) grand (M) = IDIOM: in a manner of speaking.
Classic ...
6: EXILE
Go away and be an ALIEN forever.
I know how he feels ...
7: RA(IS)ED
In a "dear" setting (RA-ED) is (IS) = RAISED: bred.
8: SHE-ETS
She (SHE) gets set (ETS) = SHEETS: in bed.
11: SC-HE-ME
The lawyer (SC) he (HE) with me (ME) = SCHEME: plan.
14: PAR
It's a knock (RAP) up = PAR: all the same.
18: TOTTER
TOTTER: an adder, and about to fall. I am not sure why we have "sounds as if" though ...
19: ENTER-TA-IN
Post in (ENTER) thanks in (TA IN) = ENTERTAIN: for a host.
20: IN-IT-IALS
Starts in it (IN IT) but will then sail (IALS) = INITIALS: to start with them.
21: IN SEA-SON
A sailor (SEA SON) is the last part of the answer, IN SEASON: in time.
23: PUS
Eat (SUP) it up = PUS: what's the matter.
Yuck ...
25: OWNS UP
The snow (OWNS) has not yet come down (UP) = OWNS UP: confesses.
26: POSTAL ... anagram of "last op".
And POSTAL: for a mail ("male" by the sound of it).
29: E(X)AMS
In the same (E-AMS) they are ten (X) = EXAMS: testing away.
30: O-MEG-A
Margaret! (O MEG!) a (A) = OMEGA: letter from Greece at 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: F-RIGHT
4: FINE ARTS
9: ORANGE
10: MI-IN-M(IS)E
12: S-NAIL
13: COMPETENT
15: ASH
16: A-LIEN
17: ENTREE
22: ASP-ECT
24: TEN-ON
27: TIE
28: WHOLE-SOME
31: RAT-HE
32: SAT-I-A-TED
33: CAN-ALS
34: POLE STAR
35: U-NI-SON

Down
1: FOOL'S-CAP
2: IN A PANIC
3: HIGHLANDS
5: I'D-IO-M
6: EXILE
7: RA(IS)ED
8: SHE-ETS
11: SC-HE-ME
14: PAR
18: TOTTER
19: ENTER-TA-IN
20: IN-IT-IALS
21: IN SEA-SON
23: PUS
25: OWNS UP
26: POSTAL
29: E(X)AMS
30: O-MEG-A

Answers to Crosaire No: 14088 - 25 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

I am going to have to content myself with a run of 8-in-a-row (no complaints from me!) as today I foundered. I took a stab at COOLEE instead of COULEE. I also had SORCERER instead of SORCEROR, but to be honest, I don't think the SORCEROR spelling is correct. I'm almost glad I missed COOLEE, otherwise I'd be moaning about SORCEROR with a lot more vehemence!

Today's Crosaire Aria
11D: ALBUM
The number one selling album in the world, by far, is Michael Jackson's Thriller. It was released in 1982, and has sold over 100 million copies worldwide. The number two best-selling album is way behind: AC/DC's Back in Black, with sales of 49 million. The song Thriller was written especially for the album, although it was originally called Starlight. The famous voice-over by Vincent Price was actually recorded in a shower stall at the studio, in order to give the right sound quality. I can't show the fabulous music video here because of copyright issues, but here is the song, set to some Michael Jackson images. To tell you the truth, the change in his appearance over the years is probably more scary than the music video anyway ...

The Clue of the Day
14A: It sounds as if one will make 30 across with 21 across (4)
There are so many things I like about this clue. It is precise enough, with both cryptic and non-cryptic elements present. It also links to two other answers and there's a taste of that secret Irish sauce. With 21 across (EMERALD) it sounds as if one will, 'I'll" (ISLE) = EMERALD ISLE = EIRE: 30 across.

The Lookup of the Day
6D: COULEE
The French word for "to flow" is couler, with the past participle of coulee. This has morphed into English as COULEE, a term used to describe a number of different landforms, all related to some sort of water or lava flow. COULEE is used in the western United States for a tongue-like protrusion of solidified lava, between which are often found canyons.

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

Across
1: S-PINELESS
No trees like this (-PINELESS) is the "last" part of the answer, SPINELESS: the invertebrates.
9: MO-ROSE
The doctor (MO) got up (ROSE) = MOROSE: in bad temper.
10: SORCEROR
Maybe someone can find a place where this spelling is acceptable, but anyway, I think it would have been less controversial to just put in SORCERER ...
11: A-LIGHT
A lamp (A LIGHT) = ALIGHT: get down.
12: S(EVER)E
Always (-EVER-) is "inside" the answer, SEVERE: strictly speaking.
14: ISLE
With 21 across (EMERALD) one will, 'I'll', it sounds as if (ISLE) = EMERALD ISLE = EIRE: 30 across.
Convoluted, but clever ...
15: SIREN
You (well, Ulysses) might hear the sound of the SIREN at sea ...
16: BEDSIT
18: NON-PLUS
M-in-us (NON PLUS) = NONPLUS: that'll puzzle you.
Now where have I seen that before, recently ...?
21: EMER-ALD
A mere (EMER) "lad" at last (ALD) = EMERALD: the green one, the precious.
24: E(X-TEN)D
2 x 10 (-X-TEN-) is "in" the answer, EXTEND: stretch.
26: BROOK
This no delay (BROOK) is for RILL perhaps.
Well, a BROOK is a RILL, and to BROOK is to tolerate, put up with. Perhaps BROOK can be thought of as tolerating something, that there is no delay? Anyone?
UPDATE: Martina has pointed out that "BROOK no delay" is a common enough phrase, albeit no so common in my speech! Thank you, Martina ...
30: E-IRE
Cross (-IRE) is the "last" part of the answer, EIRE: here, Ireland, which sounds like "e're".
31: U-SAGES
You (U) men like-wise (SAGES) for = USAGES: employments.
Nice enough ...
32: VESTED
33: THE CLOTH
One hopes that a man of material (man of THE CLOTH) is not materialistic.
34: UN(EVE)N
A nun (UN-N) around the Garden with her (EVE) = UNEVEN: so odd.
35: B-RASHNESS
What's so risky (-RASHNESS) is the "last" part of the answer, BRASHNESS: no polish.

Down
2: PROPER
Quite right (PROPER) such ties (TIES) = PROPERTIES: one owns such.
3: NICH-'E'S
Getting a broken chin (NICH) 'e's after ('E'S) = NICHES: at the corners.
4: LA(RD)ER
It's real (RE-AL) about the doctor (DR) = REDRAL, back there = LARDER: by the kitchen.
5: S-TRAINS
The southern (S) railways (TRAINS) = STRAINS: the melody.
6: COULEE
The poor worker (COOLIE) sounds as if = COULEE: the lava.
A COOLIE is an offensive term for a poor, unskilled worker in Asia, and a COULEE is a stream of molten lava, or a sheet of solidified lava.
7: ROUGH SEA
It's UNEVEN (ROUGH) see, it sounds (SEA) = ROUGH SEA: waves.
8: R(ECT-IT)UDE
In such impolite surroundings (R-UDE) to get "etc." with it (ECT-IT) = RECTITUDE: it's right.
11: ALBUM
I'll need help here ...
A record (ALBUM) in here (IN) = ALBUMIN: to get stuck?
I think that's it, with ALBUMIN being a class of proteins that dissolve in water and make a sticky mess when heated, perhaps???? Anyone?
UPDATE: Please ignore my biochemical ramblings. Martina points out that one "sticks" things in an "album". I had forgotten, I am afraid. Nowadays I upload things into albums!! Do they still sell those glue bottles, with the rubber top with the slit in it? What was that glue called?
13: R-ILL
Are in short (R) sick of (ILL) = RILL: being like BROOK.
17: ENDEAVOUR
19: NOT AS YET
20: UNDID
22: EROS
In pain (SORE) turn up = EROS: for the love of god.
23: A-BETTER
A gambler (A BETTER) = ABETTER: one to encourage.
25: NEEDED
After a wan (WAN) Ted is (TED) = WANTED = NEEDED: as required.
27: OUSELS ... anagram of "louse's".
An OUSEL (also ouzel) is a common, black, European thrush, I just found out ...
28: K(A)O-LIN
To nothing (NIL) [all right (OK) about a (A)] = NIL-O(A)K, up = KAOLIN: clay.
Nice and tricky ...
29: HEAT-HS
To warm (HEAT-) is the "start" of the answer, HEATHS: the moors, perhaps.

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: S-PINELESS
9: MO-ROSE
10: SORCEROR
11: A-LIGHT
12: S(EVER)E
14: ISLE
15: SIREN
16: BEDSIT
18: NON-PLUS
21: EMER-ALD
24: E(X-TEN)D
26: BROOK
30: E-IRE
31: U-SAGES
32: VESTED
33: THE CLOTH
34: UN(EVE)N
35: B-RASHNESS

Down
2: PROPER
3: NICH-'E'S
4: LA(RD)ER
5: S-TRAINS
6: COULEE
7: ROUGH SEA
8: R(ECT-IT)UDE
11: ALBUM
13: R-ILL
17: ENDEAVOUR
19: NOT AS YET
20: UNDID
22: EROS
23: A-BETTER
25: NEEDED
27: OUSELS
28: K(A)O-LIN
29: HEAT-HS

Answers to Crosaire No: 14087 - 24 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

Now we're rocking and rolling. Today's puzzle was tough I found, but I just couldn't give up as I am on a run of correct solutions. Despite my mathematical bent, O found the arithmetic the hardest to solve! Last to go in were NONPLUS and UNEQUAL. It took me 32m 08s, but I am now at the dizzying heights of r8ow.

Today's Crosaire Aria
24A: NATIVITY
In 1956, a guy called Jester Harston wrote a religious Christmas song called Mary's Boy Child, a song still performed by many artists today, and a song which is considered by some as a traditional Christmas carol. The first recording was made that same year by Harry Belafonte, and it reached number one in the UK just after Christmas in early 1957. Twenty years later, Boney M. were riding their wave of success, and as Christmas 1978 rolled around, they decided to rush out a Christmas single. In early November they grabbed the Belafonte classic, modified it to their style, and by the end of the month they released Mary's Boy Child - Oh My Lord. The song hit number hit number one, staying in that spot for four weeks.

The Clue of the Day
14D: They're the fellows at the bottom of what ruins the top (10)
I think there is more to this clue than meets the eye, with a lot of words serving double-duty, supporting both the cryptic and non-cryptic definitions. Looking at the cryptic definition first ... "ruins the top" gives us an anagram (ruins) of the word "ruins" as the top of this down answer. Then "the fellows at the bottom" gives us GENTS at the bottom of the answer. "Ruins" the top (INSUR) the fellows at the bottom (GENTS) = INSURGENTS. And INSURGENTS are fellows at the bottom of the system that rebel against (ruin) those at the top.

The Lookup of the Day
15A: NONPLUS
The noun NONPLUS describes a state of perplexity and confusion. It comes into English directly from the Latin non plus which translates as "nothing more", as in "I am so perplexed there is nothing more I can do". The French usage of non and plus is slightly different although related. The phrase moi non plus translates as "me neither", but the adverbial construction ne ... plus modifies the verb with "not anymore, no longer". With regard to the image on the right, "confused" or "no longer", I'm happy with either ...

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

Across
1: CAP-ABILITY
With headgear (CAP) skill (ABILITY) = CAPABILITY: skill.
6: WOLF
Makes the stream (FLOW) go back = WOLF: one in the pack.
10: PASTE ... anagram of "a step"
11: NU(MERATO)R
One to run (NU-R) at Rome (MERATO) = NUMERATOR: but only figuratively.
12: ATTESTED
ATTESTS in the PAST TENSE.
13: ABE-LE
Little Abraham (ABE) gets to the French (LE) = ABELE: by way of a tree.
ABELE is the rarely used name for the white poplar tree. It's an old friend, and was a Lookup of the Day back in August of last year ...
15: NON-PLUS
How minus, perhaps (NON-PLUS) = NONPLUS: may confuse one.
NONPLUS, such a lovely word ...
17: YOG-HURT
To damage one (-HURT) is the "last" part of the answer = YOGHURT: so curdled.
19: UNEQUAL
21: A-B-STAIN
A bee, perhaps (A B) the mark (STAIN) = ABSTAIN: keep off.
22: GIR-TH
Rig up (GIR) begin th-e (TH) = GIRTH: all the way round.
24: NA(TI-V)ITY
A tiny (NA-ITY) about "five" with "it" back (TI-V) = NATIVITY: the arrival of a tiny one.
Nice bit of double-duty for "a tiny" ...
27: NOISELESS
28: TUBER ... anagram of "brute".
29: SHE'D
The woman had (SHE'D) disposed of (SHED) the outhouse (SHED).
I am sure there is a typo in the clue, and it should read "had" not "has" ...
30: IT IS THE END
The fin, IT IS THE END, I guess. Either the end of the French film, or the end of the fish ...

Down
1: COPE
The COPE is an outer vestment worn by the clergy during the liturgy ...
2: PAST TENSE
"Was" is "is" in the PAST TENSE, not the present.
3: BR-EVE
This might be the little brother (BR) of the first lady (EVE) = BREVE: by the sound of it, note.
A semi-BREVE is considered to be a whole note in music, and a BREVE is twice that, so the equivalent of two whole notes ...
4: LINCTUS
This may be "joined" to "us" (LINKED US) by the sound of it = LINCTUS: for a pain in the neck (well, throat actually).
A LINCTUS is a cough syrup ...
5: TIM-IDLY
Timothy (TIM) lacking industry (IDLY) = TIMIDLY: and lacking bravery.
More double-duty, this time for "lacking" ...
7: OUT-RE
Out (OUT) and about (RE) = OUTRE: one is deviating.
Something that is OUTRE is very unconventional, grossly deviating from the norm ...
8: FOR-GETTING
For (FOR) possession (GETTING) it's all = FORGETTING: never mind.
9: AR(RAN)GES
The furies, 'rages' (AR-GES) hurried, 'ran', in (RAN) = ARRANGES: manages to have.
14: INSUR-GENTS
What "ruins" the top (INSUR) they're the fellows at the bottom (GENTS) = INSURGENTS: they're the fellows at the bottom that ruin the top!
Nice double-duty yet again ...
16: LAUGHTER
The South (S) might find this funny (LAUGHTER) = SLAUGHTER: killingly.
18: UN(ACT)ABLE
Can't (UN-ABLE) get around a cat (ACT) = UNACTABLE: that's not play-ful.
20: LE(NIEN)T
Let (LE-T) about nine (NIEN) = LENIENT: it not be harsh.
21: AT-TESTS
Being present (AT) the matches (TESTS) = ATTESTS: witnesses.
23: RA(IS)E
Are (RA-E) about is (IS) = RAISE: get up.
25: V-ETCH
Five (V) may cut into this (ETCH) = VETCH: may cut into this to prune it.
Double-duty, double-duty ...
VETCH is a common type of plant, often grown for compost ...
26: ARID
The dr-ought to make it like this = ARID: without 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: CAP-ABILITY
6: WOLF
10: PASTE
11: NU(MERATO)R
12: ATTESTED
13: ABE-LE
15: NON-PLUS
17: YOG-HURT
19: UNEQUAL
21: A-B-STAIN
22: GIR-TH
24: NA(TI-V)ITY
27: NOISELESS
28: TUBER
29: SHE'D
30: IT IS THE END

Down
1: COPE
2: PAST TENSE
3: BR-EVE
4: LINCTUS
5: TIM-IDLY
7: OUT-RE
8: FOR-GETTING
9: AR(RAN)GES
14: INSUR-GENTS
16: LAUGHTER
18: UN(ACT)ABLE
20: LE(NIEN)T
21: AT-TESTS
23: RA(IS)E
25: V-ETCH
26: ARID

Answers to Crosaire No: 14086 - 23 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

Yes, indeedy. A good puzzle is a solved puzzle! I thought there were a lot of nice clues today, so it was no walkover. I moved through fairly steadily, and then had to think for quite a while before REPRESENT fell for me, followed quickly them by KERNEL. And finally, I get to move myself up the Honour Roll. 7-in-a-row ... tantara!

Today's Crosaire Aria
10A: BUTTERCUP
Much as I am tempted to play I'm Called Little Buttercup from HMS Pinafore, today's Aria is Build Me Up Buttercup, released by the Foundations in 1968. If you've seen the film There's Something About Mary, you might recall that the song features in the soundtrack. During filming, the actors (for some reason!) mimed the words of Build Me Up Buttercup throughout the shoot, and put together a spoof music video. It's actually pretty funny, and brings back memories of what was a pretty good movie.

The Clue of the Day
1A: That's what this is (3,6)
Sometimes puzzle setters do like to a little cruciverbalist cleverness. M. Crosaire indulged himself today! This is ONE ACROSS.

The Lookup of the Day
27A: NINE LIVES
I checked into the origins of the myth that a cat has nine lives, and couldn't really find any credible source to the expression. The speculation is that a cat is indeed remarkably tenacious, with suppleness in the body and speed that allows it to escape life-threatening situations. That cat also has the innate ability to twist its body around quickly in an instinctive reaction if it falls, so that it "always" lands on its feet. In Ancient Egypt, cats were considered sacred animals. As nine was a special number to the Egyptians, it is also conjectured that these two facts together perhaps gave rise to the myth. Frankly, as a dog person, I am not too worried ...

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

Across
1: ONE ACROSS
And yet another nice start to a puzzle ...
9: S-N-OOZE
From the South (S) to the North (N) this will seep (OOZE) = SNOOZE: with sleep.
10: BUTTERCUP
Fortunately, H.M.S. Pinafore is one of my favorite Gilbert & Sullivan operettas, so I was familiar with the character “Little BUTTERCUP” ... dear little BUTTERCUP, sweet little BUTTERCUP, aye …"
11: PEOPLE ... anagram of "pop" goes the "eel".
12: NECESSITY
NECESSITY is the mother of invention, so NECESSITY has an inventive daughter.
13: STO-RED
Twisted sot (STO) the ruddy (RED) = STORED: put away.
17: ADO
After this fuss (ADO) to get sin back (NIS) = BILL ... I mean ADONIS: beautiful.
19: USE-LESS
Encouragement to be economical (USE LESS) = USELESS: no good.
20: NO-NAG-ON
Horseless (NO NAG) on (ON) = NONAGON: every side of one.
A NONAGON is a 9-sided figure, and another nice little clue ...
21: HUE
A boy (HUGH) by the sound of it = HUE: the shade.
23: KERNEL
Rank (COLONEL) this sounds = KERNEL: in the middle of things.
Tricky enough homonym ...
27: NINE LIVES
Pussy has NINE LIVES ...
28: EASTER
29: CO(LONI)ALS
Among coals (CO-ALS) "O, nil" may be made (LONI) for = COLONIALS: those abroad.
30: TU(NI)CS
Cuts (TU-CS) about in (NI) = TUNICS: so wearing a way.
31: INTERESTS

Down
2: NEUT-ER
The tune (NEUT) with 'er ('ER) for = NEUTER: that's "it".
3: ANTLER
Got one of them on a-head of a deer ("dear" by the sound of them) = ANTLER.
4: RA-REST
An academician (RA) sort of holiday (REST) for = RAREST: most unusual.
5: S-HUNTED
Had to look for them (-HUNTED) is the "last" part of the answer, SHUNTED: moved the trucks.
6: INVESTING
INVESTING is to lay siege, as we found out in an interesting (pun intended!) Lookup of the Day last month ...
7: COOPERAGE
8: DEF-ENDING
Fed up (DEF) at last with (ENDING) = DEFENDING: not being offensive.
14: BUCK TEETH
They're incisor ("in size or" by the sound of them) projecting = BUCK TEETH.
Nice one ...
15: RE-PRESENT
Just about (RE) now (PRESENT) for = REPRESENT: stand in.
16: REVERENCE
His REVERENCE is in church.
17: ASH
18: ONE
Like you (ONE) I'll follow (I'LL) = O'NEILL: him from Ireland.
22: UNICORN
This, for one, is said to go on a-head, but not like ANTLER.
24: BE-FORE
This could give warning of (golf) course (BE FORE) = BEFORE: prior.
Clever ...
25: S(I)MILE
Looks happy (S-MILE) about one (I) = SIMILE: like.
26: PEL(LE)T
In the skin (PEL-T) the French (LE) = PELLET: one gets shot with this.

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: ONE ACROSS
9: S-N-OOZE
10: BUTTERCUP
11: PEOPLE
12: NECESSITY
13: STO-RED
17: ADO
19: USE-LESS
20: NO-NAG-ON
21: HUE
23: KERNEL
27: NINE LIVES
28: EASTER
29: CO(LONI)ALS
30: TU(NI)CS
31: INTERESTS

Down
2: NEUT-ER
3: ANTLER
4: RA-REST
5: S-HUNTED
6: INVESTING
7: COOPERAGE
8: DEF-ENDING
14: BUCK TEETH
15: RE-PRESENT
16: REVERENCE
17: ASH
18: ONE
22: UNICORN
24: BE-FORE
25: S(I)MILE
26: PEL(LE)T

Answers to Crosaire No: 14085 - 22 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

A gentle start to the week, after a gentle end to last week. I recorded another fast time (14m 50s), and put real pressure on myself by equaling my personal best of 6-in-a-row. I've been here a couple of times before, and I know what this means for tomorrow. I can guarantee that M. Crosaire will bring out the big guns ...

Today's Crosaire Aria
22D: JETS
As usual, it was Bernie Taupin who wrote the lyrics to Elton John's music in Bennie and the Jets. The song was first published in 1973 on the incredibly successful Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album, and was not considered good enough to stand alone as a single. However, the public reception was so promising that it was released on its own merits in 1974, and went all the way to number one. The song tells of a fictional rock band, of whom the singer is a fan. Taupin describes the leader of the band, Bennie with these words, "She's got electric boots, a mohair suit ..." Of whom could he possibly have been thinking?

The Clue of the Day
1A: Seems the girl will be an angler, but it's hard outside (9)
I suppose the linkage between SHELL and "she will" is an obvious one, but I didn't think of it before. It's quite elegant really. Seems the girl (SHE) will ('LL) be an angler (FISH) = SHELLFISH: but it's hard outside.

The Lookup of the Day
24A: AMPERE
Andre-Marie Ampere pops up in the crossword quite a lot, so I thought I should give him "an airing". Ampere was a French physicist and mathematician working in the early 1800s. He is most famous as the man who explained to the world that electricity and magnetism are in effect two parts of the same whole, with one always coming with the other. He built his work around Orsted's observation that a compass needle is deflected when brought into the proximity of a wire through which electricity is flowing. He postulated that a current-carrying wire generates it's own magnetic field. In one of his celebrated demonstrations, he places two wires parallel to each other, and flows an electric current through both. The current in each wire produces its own magnetic field. If the current flows in the same direction in both wires, the wires are attracted to each other. Switch the direction of the current in one of the wires, its magnetic field changes direction, and the wires repel each other. Basic stuff, but very cool ...

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

Across
1: SHE'LL-FISH
Seems the girl will (SHE'LL) be an angler (FISH) = SHELLFISH: but it's hard outside.
Great start to the puzzle ...
9: SPR-ITE
May "tie" (-ITE) is the "end" of the answer, SPRITE: that mischievous creature. And SPRITE is an anagram ("in a knot") of tripes.
10: LAB(OUR)ER
Blare (LAB-ER) about our (OUR) = LABOURER: man of work.
11: WI(LI)ER
To get wire (WI-ER) around fifty-one (LI) = WILIER: it's more than cute.
12: ASS-ESS
Just how stupid (ASS) she is, perhaps (-ESS) = ASSESS: reckon.
14: WOO-D
Go courting (WOO) hundreds (D) = WOOD
15: SAT-IN
The week's end (SAT) in this (IN) = SATIN: fine stuff.
16: USHERS
Their work is all for show(ing people to their seats).
18: COLLEGE ... anagram of "clod" & "EEL".
21: ADJ(UDG)E
The jade (ADJ-E) has just about dug (DUG) = ADJUDGE: to ASSESS.
24: AMPERE
I'm two (AM PAIR) by the sound of it = AMPERE: currently.
26: NORTH ... anagram of "thorn".
30: 'EELS
Not the sole support, rather the 'heels', for the unaspirated ('EELS) = EELS.
Unaspirated ... drop the 'h' in h-eels ...
31: US-AGES
We (US) of the times (AGES) = USAGES: have our employments.
32: BR(IT)ON
Born (BR-ON) about it (IT) = BRITON: one was across from Ireland.
Nice enough ...
33: CUT IT OUT
I might need help here, I am thinking there is more to this clue than "excise" = CUT IT OUT. Anyone?
UPDATE: Moley solved this one for us, revealing quite a nice clue, I think.
Excise (CUT) a-t (I-T) remove (OUT) = CUT IT OUT; excise.
34: EL-EVEN
Nothing odd (-EVEN) is at the "end" of the answer, ELEVEN: this side.
35: A-SC-ENDING
Counsel (A SC) is finishing (ENDING) = ASCENDING: up.

Down
2: HEARS-E
Listens (HEARS) to the East (E) = HEARSE: of late in this one perhaps.
3: L(O)OSES
This fails to win (L-OSES) about nothing (O) = LOOSES: makes it not so fast.
4: FO-REST
The turn of (FO) what's left (REST) = FOREST: for WOOD.
5: S-CRAW-NY
Below the South (S) the bird's crop (CRAW) gets to New York (NY) and gets = SCRAWNY: thin.
6: AP(HID)S
In sap (AP-S) concealed (HID) are = APHIDS: the suckers.
7: DIVIDEND
8: DE(PRESS)ED
In-deed (DE-ED) about the papers (PRESS) = DEPRESSED: one may be feeling low.
11: WOULD
14 across (WOOD) to sound like = WOULD: determined to.
13: S-ALE
Drink (-ALE) is the "last" part of the answer = SALE: never buy ("by" the sound of it).
17: SCR-AMBLED
Wandered (-AMBLED) is the "last" part of the answer, SCRAMBLED: to get eggs like this.
19: LOP(SIDE)D
Plod (LOP-D) around the side (SIDE) = LOPSIDED: inclined to.
20: GREEN
The shade (GREEN) may fly (FLY) for = GREENFLY: APHIDS.
22: JETS
23: IN-SECTS
In (IN) to religious bodies (SECTS) = INSECTS: they get six feet.
25: RE-OPEN
Once more (RE-) may one "dis-close" (OPEN) = REOPEN.
27: RUST-LE
Decay (RUST) with the French (LE) = RUSTLE: leave's little sound.
28: HAL-TED
The two boys (HAL + TED) = HALTED: came to a stop.
29: RE-TURN
For 'er, you take RE and TURN it (RE TURN) = RETURN: in-come from DIVIDEND.

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: SHE'LL-FISH
9: SPR-ITE
10: LAB(OUR)ER
11: WI(LI)ER
12: ASS-ESS
14: WOO-D
15: SAT-IN
16: USHERS
18: COLLEGE
21: ADJ(UDG)E
24: AMPERE
26: NORTH
30: 'EELS
31: US-AGES
32: BR(IT)ON
33: CUT IT OUT
34: EL-EVEN
35: A-SC-ENDING

Down
2: HEARS-E
3: L(O)OSES
4: FO-REST
5: S-CRAW-NY
6: AP(HID)S
7: DIVIDEND
8: DE(PRESS)ED
11: WOULD
13: S-ALE
17: SCR-AMBLED
19: LOP(SIDE)D
20: GREEN
22: JETS
23: IN-SECTS
25: RE-OPEN
27: RUST-LE
28: HAL-TED
29: RE-TURN

WEB Crossword No: 044 - 21 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Print today's WEB puzzle (spoiler alert ... today's solution and clue explanations are included on a second page!)
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues.

Middle of the month (well, just past) ... so a medium-difficulty puzzle. This 3/5 rating should up the ante from last weekend, yet still be solvable over one one cup of tea. Well, maybe a mug!

And a reminder ... the Sunday slot is still open for anyone who wants to post his or her own, original crossword. Just contact me and I will help you with the mechanics of compiling and posting.

Across
1 There's no rum after last month, making for a good order (7)
5 In taking a little taste, I would find it quite bland (7)
9 The composer went to court for a decision (7)
11 Certain, after the French one was duty-free (7)
12 Vet "V" (3)
13 A cross that's not found in Ulster (4)
14 Alters this and it's safer to go back on in his (10)
15 It often follows, dear, the second one is right (3)
16 Get angry with Edward the Soothsayer (3,3)
17 Reminders for me and the guys to stop-start (8)
19 Not just bailed out the French island (3)
20 Explosive has a short fuse (50-50) ... can I see? (8)
21 Order surgical removal of the US ... and yes, it stinks (6)
23 A bad back seems awfully fishy (3)
24 Ludicrous, ludicrous, ludicrous about one. (10)
26 Nothing but holds for wrestlers (4)
27 ... because the four doesn't include you! (3)
28 Sort of put it about the star is someone objectionable (7)
29 Quite a fuss after the copper goes into the emergency room in South America (7)
30 Like this shirt under that jumper? There's one left, and yes, it's red (7)
31 It's even more clear when she takes both queens (7)

Down
1 Splits up Desmond, Diane and Violet, not necessarily in that order (7)
2 Where talc is used in gymnastics? (9)
3 Drops what's top-notch in the Queen's navy (4)
4 I hear that hospital in Dublin, it occupies some space (6)
5 Doomed to flail around, Edward? (3-5)
6 Exotic food with high iron content? (5,5)
7 A place you get to almost out of the system (5)
8 The S.S. medic upstairs cleans the wound (7)
10 Men use Form D, where there's room for the family (3)
14 It's clear the director gets overturned (3)
15 A corrupt cashier takes Daniel for a ride (5,5)
17 A big sandwich and an apple (3)
18 It's very difficult to find six-foot Jesuits, say (4,5)
19 William got a lien, then Edward told the soldiers where to stay (8)
20 Simulated violet ultra-chaotically (7)
21 Grabs nothing, even when it's funny (3)
22 Maybe someone at the wedding wrapped the car around the tree in a tizzy? (7)
23 Pressure to fit you into a dress (6)
25 Here's 500, then you put the pigs there, that field, but after spring (5)
26 Be around a snake (3)
27 Get us an iron container for the igniter (4)

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 my puzzles more challenging and more fun!

Across
1 There's no rum after last month, making for a good order (7)
DEC-O-RUM
After last month (DEC) there's no rum (O RUM) making for a = DECORUM: good order.
5 In taking a little taste, I would find it quite bland (7)
IN-SIP-I'D
In (IN) taking a little taste (SIP) I would (I'D) find it = INSIPID: quite bland.
9 The composer went to court for a decision (7)
VERDI-CT
The composer (VERDI) went to court (CT) for = VERDICT: a decision.
11 Certain, after the French one was duty-free (7)
LE-I-SURE
After the French one (LE I) certain (SURE) was = LEISURE: duty-free.
12 Vet "V" (3)
TEN
In Latin, "V et V" (5 and 5) = TEN
13 A cross that's not found in Ulster (4)
DOWN
A-cross, that's not = DOWN: found in Ulster.
14 Alters this and it's safer to go back on in his (10)
REFAS-HI(ON)S
It's "safer" to go back (REFAS) "on" in "his" (H-ON-IS) = REFASHIONS: alters.
15 It often follows, dear, the second one is right (3)
SIR
The second (S) one (I) is right (R) = SIR: it often follows "dear", as in Dear Sir.
16 Get angry with Edward the Soothsayer (3,3)
(SEE R)ED
The soothsayer (SEER) with Edward (ED) = SEE RED: get angry.
17 Reminders for me and the guys to stop-start (8)
ME-MEN-TO-S
Me (ME) and the guys (MEN) to (TO) s-top start (S) for = MEMENTOS: reminders.
19 Not just bailed out the French island (3)
BAD
ba-ILE-d "out" the French island (ILE) = BAD: not just.
20 Explosive has a short fuse (50-50) ... can I see? (8)
V-O-L-CAN-IC
50 (V-O) 50 (L) can I see (CAN IC) = VOLCANIC: explosive, has a short fuse.
21 Order surgical removal of the US ... and yes, it stinks (6)
GARLIC
SU-rgical "removal" of the US (RGICAL) order = GARLIC: and yes, it stinks.
23 A bad back seems awfully fishy (3)
DAB
A "bad" back = DAB: seems awfully fishy.
24 Ludicrous, ludicrous, ludicrous about one. (10)
RID(I)CULOUS
Ludicrous "ludicrous" (RID-CULOUS) about one (I) = RIDICULOUS: ludicrous.
26 Nothing but holds for wrestlers (4)
B(O)UT
But (B-UT) holds nothing (O) = BOUT: for wrestlers.
27 ... because the four doesn't include you! (3)
FOR
The fo-U-r doesn't include you (U) = FOR: because.
28 Sort of put it about the star is someone objectionable (7)
UP(STAR)T
Sort of "put" (UP-T) it about the star (STAR) is = UPSTART: someone objectionable.
29 Quite a fuss after the copper goes into the emergency room in South America (7)
E(CU-ADO)R
Into the Emergency Room (E-R) goes the copper with quite a fuss (CU ADO) = ECUADOR: in South America.
30 Like this shirt under that jumper? There's one left, and yes, it's red (7)
L-AYE-RED
There's one left (L) and yes (AYE) it's red (RED) = LAYERED: like this shirt under this jumper.
31 It's even more clear when she takes both queens (7)
SHE-ER-ER
When she (SHE) takes both queens (ER ER) it's = SHEERER: even more clear.

Down
1 Splits up Desmond, Diane and Violet, not necessarily in that order (7)
DI-VI-DES
Desmond, Diane and Violet (DES-DI-VI) not necessarily in that order (DI-VI-DES) = DIVIDES: splits up.
2 Where talc is used in gymnastics? (9)
CARTWHEEL
"Where talc" is used = CARTWHEEL: in gymnastics.
3 Drops what's top-notch in the Queen's navy (4)
R(AI)N
In the Queen's navy (R-N) what's top-notch (A-I) = RAIN: drops.
4 I hear that hospital in Dublin, it occupies some space (6)
MATTER
That hospital in Dublin (MATER) I hear = MATTER: it occupies some space.
5 Doomed to flail around, Edward? (3-5)
ILL-FA-TED
To "flail" around (ILL-FA) Edward (TED) = ILL-FATED: doomed.
6 Exotic food with high iron content? (5,5)
SHISH KEBAB
Exotic food with an iron skewer through it.
7 A place you get to almost out of the system (5)
PL-U-TO
A place (PL) "you" get "to" (U-TO) = PLUTO: almost out of the (Solar) System.
8 The S.S. medic upstairs cleans the wound (7)
DR-ESSES
The medic upstairs, on top (DR) S.S. (ESSES) = DRESSES: cleans the wound.
10 Men use Form D, where there's room for the family (3)
D-EN
M-en, use for "m" a "d" (D-EN) = DEN: where there's room for the family.
14 It's clear the director gets overturned (3)
RID
The director (DIR) gets overturned = RID: it's clear.
15 A corrupt cashier takes Daniel for a ride (5,5)
SE(DAN) CHAIR
A corrupt "cashier" (SE-CHAIR) takes Daniel (DAN) for = SEDAN CHAIR: a ride.
17 A big sandwich and an apple (3)
MAC
A Big MAC is a big sandwich, and a MAC is a computer made by Apple.
18 It's very difficult to find six-foot Jesuits, say (4,5)
TALL ORDER
Six-foot (TALL) Jesuits, say (ORDER) to find = TALL ORDER: it's very difficult.
19 William got a lien, then Edward told the soldiers where to stay (8)
BILL-ET-ED
William (BILL) got a-lien (ET) then Edward (ED) = BILLETED: told the soldiers where to stay.
20 Simulated violet ultra-chaotically (7)
VI-RTUAL
Violet (VI) "ultra" chaotically (RTUAL) = VIRTUAL: simulated.
21 Grabs nothing, even when it's funny (3)
GAS
g-R-a-B-s nothing even (drop the even letters, R & B) = GAS: when it's funny.
22 Maybe someone at the wedding wrapped the car around the tree in a tizzy? (7)
CA(TERE)R
Wrapped the car (CA-R) around the "tree" in a tizzy (TERE) = CATERER: maybe someone at the wedding.
23 Pressure to fit you into a dress (6)
D(U)RESS
Into a dress (D-RESS) to fit you (U) = DURESS: pressure.
25 Here's 500, then you put the pigs there, that field, but after spring (5)
D-U-STY
Here's 500 (D) then you (U) put the pigs there (STY) = DUSTY: Springfield (that field but after spring).
26 Be around a snake (3)
B-O-A
Be (B) a-round (O) a (A) = BOA: snake.
27 Get us an iron container for the igniter (4)
F(US)E
An "iron" container (F-E) for us (US) for = FUSE: the igniter.

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

Across
1 There's no rum after last month, making for a good order (7)
DEC-O-RUM
5 In taking a little taste, I would find it quite bland (7)
IN-SIP-I'D
9 The composer went to court for a decision (7)
VERDI-CT
11 Certain, after the French one was duty-free (7)
LE-I-SURE
12 Vet "V" (3)
TEN
13 A cross that's not found in Ulster (4)
DOWN
14 Alters this and it's safer to go back on in his (10)
REFAS-HI(ON)S
15 It often follows, dear, the second one is right (3)
SIR
16 Get angry with Edward the Soothsayer (3,3)
(SEE R)ED
17 Reminders for me and the guys to stop-start (8)
ME-MEN-TO-S
19 Not just bailed out the French island (3)
BAD
20 Explosive has a short fuse (50-50) ... can I see? (8)
V-O-L-CAN-IC
21 Order surgical removal of the US ... and yes, it stinks (6)
GARLIC
23 A bad back seems awfully fishy (3)
DAB
24 Ludicrous, ludicrous, ludicrous about one. (10)
RID(I)CULOUS
26 Nothing but holds for wrestlers (4)
B(O)UT
27 ... because the four doesn't include you! (3)
FOR
28 Sort of put it about the star is someone objectionable (7)
UP(STAR)T
29 Quite a fuss after the copper goes into the emergency room in South America (7)
E(CU-ADO)R
30 Like this shirt under that jumper? There's one left, and yes, it's red (7)
L-AYE-RED
31 It's even more clear when she takes both queens (7)
SHE-ER-ER

Down
1 Splits up Desmond, Diane and Violet, not necessarily in that order (7)
DI-VI-DES
2 Where talc is used in gymnastics? (9)
CARTWHEEL
3 Drops what's top-notch in the Queen's navy (4)
R(AI)N
4 I hear that hospital in Dublin, it occupies some space (6)
MATTER
5 Doomed to flail around, Edward? (3-5)
ILL-FA-TED
6 Exotic food with high iron content? (5,5)
SHISH KEBAB
7 A place you get to almost out of the system (5)
PL-U-TO
8 The S.S. medic upstairs cleans the wound (7)
DR-ESSES
10 Men use Form D, where there's room for the family (3)
D-EN
14 It's clear the director gets overturned (3)
RID
15 A corrupt cashier takes Daniel for a ride (5,5)
SE(DAN) CHAIR
17 A big sandwich and an apple (3)
MAC
18 It's very difficult to find six-foot Jesuits, say (4,5)
TALL ORDER
19 William got a lien, then Edward told the soldiers where to stay (8)
BILL-ET-ED
20 Simulated violet ultra-chaotically (7)
VI-RTUAL
21 Grabs nothing, even when it's funny (3)
GAS
22 Maybe someone at the wedding wrapped the car around the tree in a tizzy? (7)
CA(TERE)R
23 Pressure to fit you into a dress (6)
D(U)RESS
25 Here's 500, then you put the pigs there, that field, but after spring (5)
D-U-STY
26 Be around a snake (3)
B-O-A
27 Get us an iron container for the igniter (4)
F(US)E

Answers to Crosaire No: 14084 - 20 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another weekend. If you don't feel the need for a crossword break on Sunday, stop by and check out this week's WEB Crossword. It's a medium-difficulty 3/5 rating, as it's just past the middle of the month. It can be picked up here anytime after midnight tonight (Saturday) Irish time.

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

After Monday's debacle, this week turned out well for me, clocking up some fast times including today. I thought I might break a speed record as I popped in the outer answers straightaway, and then worked my way steadily through the inside clues. I slowed right down when I hit HEEHAWS (took a minute or two) and I had a mental block with UNIT. Eventually the stop clocked 11m 02s, but more importantly, I finish the week on 5-in-a-row. I hope you all had good fortune too.

Today's Crosaire Aria
28D: TOM CAT
Woody Allen made his first film appearance in What's New Pussycat?, released in 1965. It was also the first script that Woody Allen had been able to get produced. The film is a madcap comedy with a great cast including Peter Sellers, Peter O'Toole and Ursula Andress. Burt Baccarach and Hal Davis wrote the theme song, and the old TOM CAT himself sang it. I'll say it again, the best male voice in pop music. Here's Tom Jones shaking it all about ...

The Clue of the Day
1A: Colourful is the gift of hundreds given out once more (13)
Speaking as a crossword setter (which I suppose I am at this stage!) the hardest clues to write are for very short answers, and very long answers. The clues for long answers tend to get very wordy and convoluted. M. Crosaire does a good job here of keeping his clue to the point, and accurate, without completely giving the game away. Colourful (RED) is (IS) the gift (TRIBUTE) of hundreds (D) = REDISTRIBUTED: given out once more.

The Lookup of the Day
13A: YUCCA
We're all familiar with the agave plant (used for making tequila!), and one genus of agave is the YUCCA plant. You can find the YUCCA plant all over America, in the hot dry areas. We have so little water left over here, that we are encouraged to dig up our lawns and flower beds, and plant a drought-tolerant garden, and the YUCCA is a good choice, if you want a desert in front of your house ...

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

Across
1: RED-IS-TRIBUTE-D
Colorful (RED) is the gift (IS TRIBUTE) of hundreds (D) = REDISTRIBUTED: given out once more.
A nice start ...
10: HEEHAWS
11: T(HIM)BLE
With the "belt" twisted (T-BLE) about him (HIM) = THIMBLE: there's protection about him.
12: RUNT
13: Y(UC)CA
In the cay (Y-CA) you see (UC) = YUCCA: it grows.
The YUCCA plant is all over desert areas of the southwest United States ...
15: H-OUR
For us (OUR) is the "last" part of the answer, HOUR: more then a minute bit.
17: EAT
19: DI-LATE
I would, 'I'd', turn (DI) and be dead (LATE) = DILATE: get blown up.
21: C(ALL)ED
In the last month, in short, 'Dec' (C-ED) everything (ALL) = CALLED: by name.
22: HAL-I-BUT
Henry 1 (HAL I) although (BUT) = HALIBUT: that's very fishy.
23: EIT-HER
Here, "tie" this up (EIT) to her (HER) = EITHER: or afterwards.
25: RE-A-SON
There's something the matter (RE) with a boy of yours (A SON) = REASON: is that why?
27: RAT
A pest (RAT) this might get her (HER) = RATHER: a bit.
29: RA-IN
The artist (RA) is at home (IN) = RAIN: it's wet.
30: FELON
Came a cropper on (FELL ON) by the sound of it = FELON: a criminal.
31: FISH
Angle for HALIBUT.
34: NE(U)TRAL
Learnt (NE-TRAL) about you (U) = NEUTRAL: not on one side.
35: CHIC-AGO
Fashionable (CHIC) some time since (AGO) = CHICAGO: in the USA.
36: RED SKY AT NIGHT

Down
2: E(TERN)AL
In the ale (E-AL) a bird on the water (TERN) = ETERNAL.
3: I-RAN
One was in a harry (I RAN) = IRAN: to get there.
4: TISSUE
A (A) this is very thin (TISSUE) = A TISSUE, sounds = ATISHOO: cold.
5: IN(TAC)T
In the tin (IN-T) what's the cat up to (TAC) = INTACT: unbroken.
6: UNIT
You're needling (YOU KNIT) sound as if = UNIT: for one.
7: EM(BRO)IL
With a mile (EM-IL) comes your little brother (BRO) = EMBROIL: to get involved.
8: THE RED HER-RING
9: RED RIDING HOOD
14: CAPITAL
16: ETHER
Will put one to sleep like this (E-THER) one in (I) = EITHER: 23 across.
18: LATER
I (I) would do (DO) this by and by (LATER) = IDOLATER: being heathen.
20: EAR
Going on a-head (EAR) with thy help (THY) I would get = EARTHY: soiled.
21: CUR
This brute (CUR) E (E) = CURE: could make well.
24: TR(I)BUTE
The butter (TR-BUTE) I get into (I) = TRIBUTE: in REDIS(TRIBUTE)D
26: SP(IN)ACH
The chaps (SP-ACH) in among (IN) = SPINACH: you get so green.
27: RE-ALLY
It's about (RE) one on your side (ALLY) = REALLY: actually.
An oldie but goodie, that reads extremely well ...
28: TOM CAT
The "fee" on-"line" (FEE LINE) by the sound of it = FELINE, his = TOM CAT.
32: ARTS
33: MINI
In (IN) what I am (I'M) = INIM, coming back = MINI: so little car.

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: RED-IS-TRIBUTE-D
10: HEEHAWS
11: T(HIM)BLE
12: RUNT
13: Y(UC)CA
15: H-OUR
17: EAT
19: DI-LATE
21: C(ALL)ED
22: HAL-I-BUT
23: EIT-HER
25: RE-A-SON
27: RAT
29: RA-IN
30: FELON
31: FISH
34: NE(U)TRAL
35: CHIC-AGO
36: RED SKY AT NIGHT

Down
2: E(TERN)AL
3: I-RAN
4: TISSUE
5: IN(TAC)T
6: UNIT
7: EM(BRO)IL
8: THE RED HER-RING
9: RED RIDING HOOD
14: CAPITAL
16: ETHER
18: LATER
20: EAR
21: CUR
24: TR(I)BUTE
26: SP(IN)ACH
27: RE-ALLY
28: TOM CAT
32: ARTS
33: MINI

Answers to Crosaire No: 14083 -19 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

Not too troublesome today, I thought. My last answer was DEPARTING. I can see the relationship with the clue, but I was hesitant. I didn't want to put in that last letter and not have the clock stop when looking for an r4ow. And stop it did, at a cracking 13m 08s, and I found that 4-in-a-row.

Today's Crosaire Aria
7D: CARAVANS
The opening lines are, "Trailers for sale or rent, rooms to let 50 cents ..." and the song is Roger Miller's King of the Road. My mother loved this song, and I remember her buying the 45 back in 1965 when it was first released. It was a classic "crossover" hit, a country song making it big in the pop charts. Later in 1965, country singer Jody Miller took the same tune, changed the lyrics and recorded Queen of the House. It told the tale of the housewife, and is worth checking out! But for now, here's Roger Miller ...
OOPS! I just realized that I already have Roger Miller's King of the Road in the Aria collection ... so here is Queen of the House instead!!

The Clue of the Day
10A: There are fields for former speech (8)
This clue isn't really very precise, but it does fit the bill for Clue of the Day, as it is efficient in its use of words. Former (PAST) speech (ORAL) for = PASTORAL: there are fields.

The Lookup of the Day
5D: CALYPSO
The musical style of calypso originated in Trinidad and Tobago, but there seems to be some debate about which influences were most important in developing the genre. It is generally agreed that the music was largely imported by African slaves from their homeland. Others point out influences of the medieval French troubadours. To me it sounds more African in nature. The music took off when it was first recorded in 1912, and it spread around the world in the thirties and forties. It reached its pinnacle with the infamous Banana Boat Song, from Harry Belafonte.

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

Across
1: A-BUN-DANCE
The baker's ball (A BUN DANCE) = ABUNDANCE: lots (to eat).
An oldie but goodie ...
9: PA-LATE
Father (PA) not being on time (LATE) = PALATE: is tasteful.
10: PAST-ORAL
Former (PAST) speech (ORAL) for = PASTORAL: there are fields.
11: PAN-A-MA
The god (PAN) with a mother (A MA) for = PANAMA: a hat.
12: REFUSE
14: PART
15: T(I'D)ES
Set up (T-ES) around I would (I'D) for = TIDES: the ebbs and flows.
16: ASL(AN)T
In the last (ASL-T) an inclusion (AN) to be = ASLANT: inclined.
18: LODGERS
21: VENISON
May be taken as a course = VENISON: deer (it sounds "dear").
24: C-HEATS
After a century (C) it gets on hot (HEATS) = CHEATS: not fairly.
26: A-MISS
Not being married (A MISS) = AMISS: not to be badly taken.
30: RENT
31: MET-RIC
Came across (MET) the old constabulary (RIC) = METRIC: with no feet in the system.
32: JUDGES
33: EVICTING
34: COUNTS
They're noble (COUNTS) by number (COUNTS) that matters (COUNTS).
35: IN THE DOCK

DOWN
2: BE-A-TEN
To be (BE) an X (A TEN) = BEATEN: not won ("one" by the sound of it).
3: NOT OUT
Bat-on, he's NOT OUT, the innings may continue!
4: A-GREED
A (A) being too much in want (GREED) = AGREED: yes.
5: CALYPSO
"D'ya make 'er" sound like (JAMAICA) where there's such music = CALYPSO.
6: CA-RATS
From such accounts (CA) miserable (RATS) you get = CARATS: precious little.
7: CAR-A-VAN'S
The motor (CAR) a commercial vehicle is (A VAN'S) for = CARAVAN: those who are moving, and following the car.
8: DE-PARTING
It's just no (DE-) go (PARTING) = DEPARTING; go!
I suppose going is PARTING, so "no going" is DE-PARTING ...
11: P-RATE
Soft sounding (P) speed (RATE) = PRATE: in a manner of speaking.
13: SIZE
One may heave them (SIGHS) sounds as if = SIZE: despite their being so big.
17: BLACKJACK
With spades or clubs, one has a BLACK JACK, and a BLACKJACK may knock one out.
19: DREADFUL ... anagram of "furl" the "dead".
20: RIS-ES
When the knight, 'sir', gets up (RIS) is the "first" part of the answer, RISES: gets up.
22: NOSE
One is aware of it (KNOWS) by the sound of it = NOSE: on the face of it.
23: PATTERN ... anagram of "part" & "net".
25: TREATS
27: I'M-PISH
I am (I'M) on the broken ship (PISH) = IMPISH: mischievously.
28: STATED ... anagram of "tasted".
29: PICNIC

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: A-BUN-DANCE
9: PA-LATE
10: PAST-ORAL
11: PAN-A-MA
12: REFUSE
14: PART
15: T(I'D)ES
16: ASL(AN)T
18: LODGERS
21: VENISON
24: C-HEATS
26: A-MISS
30: RENT
31: MET-RIC
32: JUDGES
33: EVICTING
34: COUNTS
35: IN THE DOCK

DOWN
2: BE-A-TEN
3: NOT OUT
4: A-GREED
5: CALYPSO
6: CA-RATS
7: CAR-A-VAN'S
8: DE-PARTING
11: P-RATE
13: SIZE
17: BLACKJACK
19: DREADFUL
20: RIS-ES
22: NOSE
23: PATTERN
25: TREATS
27: I'M-PISH
28: STATED
29: PICNIC

Answers to Crosaire No: 14082 - 18 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

A puzzle of contrasts, I'd say. I ripped though most of it in ten minutes or less, then screeched to a halt missing just two clues in the southwest. It took me another 7-8 minutes to finally come up with COURT-SHIPS, and then 3-4 rotations through alphabet soup to unearth SEER. The clock finally gave up at 22m 51s, but who's complaining? R3ow ...

Today's Crosaire Aria
3D: KICKS
(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66 dates way back, released by Nat King Cole in 1946. This famous old highway, now largely replaced, ran from Chicago to Los Angeles, right through the heart of America. As such, is was often called the "Main Street of America". The road gained even more notoriety because of Nat King Cole's song, but also because of the sixties TV show Route 66, that I can remember watching back in Ireland way back when. As you watch this old video, you might take a second to note that the Irish Times started publishing Derek Crozier's Crosaire puzzle in 1943, three years before this song was released ...

The Clue of the Day
8D: Get to Achill when it comes to blows (5,1,4)
In this clue, M. Crosaire connects to the Auld Sod by using Achill quite inventively. When he say "we get to Achill" he is really saying, "we get to a chill", CATCH A COLD. He confirms this by adding "it comes to blows" ... of your nose, that is ...

The Lookup of the Day
Nothing to look up! A very quiet day!

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

Across
1: BLACK SUITS
Suitable for the mourning ("morning" by the sound of it) = BLACK SUITS: such cards.
6: TA-LC
Thanks (TA) to Elsie (LC) = TALC: some powder.
10: ATTIC
ATTIC Greek was the elite dialect spoken in Attica in Greece. I suppose that is the reference...
11: AM(USE-MEN)T
In the mat (AM-T) employ people (USE MEN) just for = AMUSEMENT: fun.
12: A-MASS-IN-G
To sing for service (A MASS) in the key of G (IN G) = AMASSING: acquiring something.
13: LAT(C)H
Halt (LAT-H) about a hundred (C) = LATCH: to make the door fast.
15: OPT-I-MUM
Choose (OPT) one mother (I MUM) like this = OPTIMUM: it's all for the best.
17: D(YNAM)IC
The detectives (CI-D) about many (MANY) = CIMANYD, all come back = DYNAMIC: lively.
19: REC(IT)ED
In the creed (REC-ED) it (IT) = RECITED: gets spoken.
21: BASH-FUL
22: ST-AIR
With saintly (ST) music (SIR) = STAIR: this gets one higher.
24: FOUNTAIN
27: IN(GRAIN)ED
So to dine (IN-ED) about what's seedy (GRAIN) = INGRAINED: it's part of one's nature.
28: TE(M)PO
To get the poet (TE-PO) around it's grand (M) = TEMPO: time.
29: SEER
A SEER is like-wise, and a SEER is an eye, or sounds as if it could be.
30: TEMPER-ANCE
With anger (TEMPER) Cane (ANCE) = TEMPERANCE; will never be a drinker.

Down
1: BEAR
Bruin (the sound that's "brewin'") (BEAR) one so beastly big (BEAR) could one stand (BEAR) ... I think the answer is BEAR ...
2: AUTOMATIC
3: KICKS
4: URANIUM
U is the atomic symbol for the "element" URANIUM.
As we've seen before, to be U or non-U is fifties slang. To be non-U is not to be "upper class", whereas to be U is ...
5: TRUDGED ... anagram of "TD urged".
7: AREN'T
8: CATCH A COLD
Get to a-chill, when it comes to blows (of your nose) = CATCH A COLD.
Clever use of Achill ...
9: CEILINGS
They get stuck up (SEALINGS) that sound as if = CEILINGS: they're all part of the overheads.
14: COURT-SHIPS
For royalty afloat, perhaps (COURT SHIPS) = COURTSHIPS: love nests.
16: MATERNAL ... anagram of "male rant".
18: MUFF-IN MAN
Over-hand (MUFF) in him (IN MAN) = MUFFIN MAN: he had food for sale of old.
20: DE-FENCE
21: BOUND UP
23: ANGLE
25: TUTOR ... anagram of "trout".
26: TO-ME
In my direction (TO ME) = TOME: in volume.

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: BLACK SUITS
6: TA-LC
10: ATTIC
11: AM(USE-MEN)T
12: A-MASS-IN-G
13: LAT(C)H
15: OPT-I-MUM
17: D(YNAM)IC
19: REC(IT)ED
21: BASH-FUL
22: ST-AIR
24: FOUNTAIN
27: IN(GRAIN)ED
28: TE(M)PO
29: SEER
30: TEMPER-ANCE

Down
1: BEAR
2: AUTOMATIC
3: KICKS
4: URANIUM
5: TRUDGED
7: AREN'T
8: CATCH A COLD
9: CEILINGS
14: COURT-SHIPS
16: MATERNAL
18: MUFF-IN MAN
20: DE-FENCE
21: BOUND UP
23: ANGLE
25: TUTOR
26: TO-ME

Answers to Crosaire No: 14081 - 17 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

I didn't need too much encouragement to stick with today's puzzle. I fairly raced through today, just hesitating a little in the northeast at the end. I stopped the clock at 13m 16s, pretty zippy for me, and an r2ow.

Today's Crosaire Aria
15A: LET
Let it Be was the last song that the Beatles released as an active group, playing together. The song was written by Paul McCartney, and is clearly one of his own favorites. He says that he was inspired to write the song after having had a dream about his mother (who had died some years earlier from cancer). In fact, in the line "Mother Mary comes to me", the reference is to his mother, Mary McCartney nee Mohan. Paul's second wife, Linda, is singing backing vocals on the song, the only time she is known to have done so in a Beatles recording. 18 years after that 1970 recording was made, Paul, George and Ringo sang Let it Be at a memorial service for Linda, who was also lost to cancer. Morbid stuff, but a lovely song ...

The Clue of the Day
23D: Not so far as F, perhaps, on foot (3)
This is clever bit of wordplay. If you don't go far as F, perhaps you go only as far as E (TO E) = TOE: on foot. Very nice ...

The Lookup of the Day
4A: WISHBONE
In birds, the two clavicles (collar bones) are fused into one, V-shaped bone called the furcula. The fusing of these two bones gives strength to the upper skeleton, helping the bird to fly. Man has been killing poor little birdies for food for millennia, and for centuries has been pulling the furcula out of the carcass. The tradition is for two people to pull the bone apart making a wish, and the person who ends up with the larger part of the bone is destined to have his or her wish granted. For this reason, the furcula is commonly known as the WISHBONE or "merrythought".

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

Across
1: ON-LINE
4: WISH-BONE
9: F-RIGID
Stiff (-RIGID) is the "last" part of the answer, FRIGID: frozen.
10: FINANCED
One's "fiance", is an anagram for "most" of the answer, FINANCED: the money was put up.
I think that's it ... hmm ...
12: R(OUT)E
In about (R-E) it's out (OUT) = ROUTE: as a matter of course.
Nice one ...
13: ATHLETICS
15: LET
This could allow (LET) Hal (HAL) = LETHAL: to be a murderer.
16: NI(E)CE
Pleasant (NI-CE) about the East = NIECE: she is relatively.
17: TA'S-TED
I'll need help here ...
Daddy's (TA'S?) little boy (TED) was = TASTED: so trying.
22: ASTRAL ... anagram of "last R.A."
24: ETH-'ER
"The" way (ETH) to get 'er ('ER) = ETHER: to go to sleep.
27: TAR
The pest (RAT) back = TAR: pitch.
28: PEN-IT-ENCE
To write this (PEN IT-) "begins" the answer, PENITENCE: in a sorry state.
31: YACHT
"Cathy" is for, an anagram = YACHT: for sail ("sale" by the sound of it).
Looks like we have the YACHT anagram controversy of couple of days ago behind us ...
32: ROT-AT-I'VE
The decay (ROT) at (AT) what I have (I'VE) = ROTATIVE: getting around to.
33: BO(TT)LE
In the tree trunk (BO-LE) one will not drink (TT) = BOTTLE: drink from this.
Nice double-duty for "drink" ...
34: SUDDENLY
It's not war-ned this way.
35: TYPHUS ... anagram of "spy" at the "hut".

Down
1: OFF-ERIN-G
Not so keen now (OFF) on Ireland (ERIN) Gee (G) = OFFERING: that's just for the present
2: LE(I-SURE)D
When "led" around (LE-D) I certainly (I SURE) = LEISURED: wasn't working like this.
3: NOISELESS
5: IRISH
As in the IRISH times.
6: HE-AVE
Might he (HE) hail (AVE) and = HEAVE: haul.
7: ORC-HID
The whale (ORC) could not be seen (HID) = ORCHID: blooming.
8: ELDEST
"Seen you're" sound (SENIOR) = ELDEST.
11: BATTER
A BATTER plays baseball, not cricket. And a cake is made from BATTER.
14: LOT
LOT's wife gets "salted", pickled.
18: SAL-TED
She (SAL) got him (TED) = SALTED: pickled.
A nice little couplet of clues ...
19: E-VERY-BODY
Get extremely corpse-like (-VERY-BODY) is the "last" part of the answer, EVERYBODY: all.
20: THE CATCH
21: FRITTERS ... anagram of "T first" with "'er".
23: TO-E
Not so far as F, only as far as E (TO E) = TOE: on foot.
Lovely wordplay ...
25: OPERAS
Car-men make one of them.
26: UN-I-TED
One in France (UN) one Edward (I TED) = UNITED: as one.
A quirky little clue ...
29: TIT-HE
A small bird (TIT) male (HE) = TITHE: small part.
30: NAVEL
All at sea (NAVAL) by the sound of it = NAVEL: we all have one.

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: ON-LINE
4: WISH-BONE
9: F-RIGID
10: FINANCED
12: R(OUT)E
13: ATHLETICS
15: LET
16: NI(E)CE
17: TA'S-TED
22: ASTRAL
24: ETH-'ER
27: TAR
28: PEN-IT-ENCE
31: YACHT
32: ROT-AT-I'VE
33: BO(TT)LE
34: SUDDENLY
35: TYPHUS

Down
1: OFF-ERIN-G
2: LE(I-SURE)D
3: NOISELESS
5: IRISH
6: HE-AVE
7: ORC-HID
8: ELDEST
11: BATTER
14: LOT
18: SAL-TED
19: E-VERY-BODY
20: THE CATCH
21: FRITTERS
23: TO-E
25: OPERAS
26: UN-I-TED
29: TIT-HE
30: NAVEL

Answers to Crosaire No: 14080 - 16 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

I very nearly gave up today, things were going so slowly, but I bumped into Liz in the Midnight Crosaire Club, and she encouraged me to persevere! I found the Lookup of the Day with my last answer TISANE, which stopped the clock. A relatively pedestrian 23m 39s, for another r1ow.

Today's Crosaire Aria
7D: MUSSULMAN
One of the most visible singers of the Muslim faith has to be Cat Stevens, now known as Yusuf Islam. Cat Stevens (I'll use his former stage name) was born in London, Steven Demetre Georgiou. Hi father was a Greek-Cypriot, and his mother Swedish. He was raised Catholic, but at the age of nineteen he started to learn more about other religions, took up meditation and yoga, and became a vegetarian. This change in his life was brought about by a near-death experience, when he contracted tuberculosis and for a while suffered with a collapsed lung. In 1976 he had another brush with death, nearly drowning off the coast of California. At this point he got very serious about "finding a god", and delved into many of the Eastern religions as that was where his interest lay. After studying a copy of the Qur'an given to him by his brother, he began his transition to Islam. So, here is Yusuf Islam, singing Moonshadow back in 1971 ...

The Clue of the Day
15D: Save up four to be by way of avoiding a place in Dublin (9)
Maybe it's because I grew up in Dublin, that I like this clue. I love the Irish references in M. Crosaire's historic Irish puzzle, but a specific Dublin reference is perhaps a tad unfair. Luckily, I used to live not far from ELY Place, so I am on the inside! Save up (EVAS) four (IV) a "Place" in Dublin (ELY) to be = EVASIVELY: by way of avoiding. Lovely use of "place" though, actually being in the "place" name ...

The Lookup of the Day
21A: TISANE
Tea comes from the tea bush, so the term herbal "tea" is a bit of a misnomer. In fact, herbal tea seems to be made from everything but tea! The word TISANE might be more useful, in that it means the same thing as herbal tea, an infusion made using usually the leaves of plants other than tea. TISANE comes from the Greek word ptisane, which is a drink made from pearl barley.

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

Across
1: ALL IN VAIN
Everything (ALL) in (IN) the blood vessel, 'vein', by the sound of it (VAIN) = ALL IN VAIN: USELESSLY.
9: MINUTE
10: DIS-CAR-DED
Sidney back (DIS) with the motor (CAR) = DISCAR-, "starts" the answer, DISCARDED: only to get it all thrown away.
11: MISSED
Being befogged (MIST) by the sound of it = MISSED: couldn't find it.
12: AD-HE-RENTS
Advertisement (AD) he (HE) leases (RENTS) = ADHERENTS: the following.
Very tidy ...
13: B(AI-LI)E
Be (B-E) about "first rate at "fifty-one" (AI-LI) = BAILIE: In Scotland, the official.
A BAILIE is senior member of a local council in Scotland, a term derived from "bailiff". We've seen it before a couple of times ...
17: OAR
An alternative (OR) this sounds like = OAR: a sweep.
19: IN(V-IT)ED
To dine (IN-ED) about "five" with "it" (V-IT) = INVITED: bidden.
20: ATTRACT
I guess we can let M. Crosaire away with this non-cryptic, as it pairs nicely with 8D: Draws (4,5) ...
21: E-FT
E (E) got one foot (FT) with = EFT: a new-t.
23: 'TIS-AN-E
Seems it is ('TIS) an E (AN E) = TISANE: the blooming infusion.
27: ATTENTION
As a soldier on parade, you're not "at ease" when you're standing to ATTENTION.
28: T(AVER)N
Claim (-AVER-) is "in" the answer, TAVERN: the pub.
29: D(EST-IT)UTE
In a "duet" (D-UTE) put the broken "set" with "it" (EST-IT) = DESTITUTE: this broke.
30: OG-LING
Go back (OG) at the fish (LING) = OGLING: making eyes.
31: USE-LESS-LY
Start to "be economical" (USE LESS) this way (-LY) = USELESSLY.
Clever enough ...

Down
2: L(AIR)DS
In LSD (L-DS) there's an atmosphere (AIR) = LAIRDS: in Scotland.
3: INC-HE'S
Incorporated (INC) with this "he is" (HE'S) = INCHES: in short (INCHES are abbreviated "in.").
4: VERSES
Might poe-try make them?
5: I-N(E)RTIA
After one (I) in the "train" be "'e" [N(E)RTIA] = INERTIA: no will.
6: LITIGANTS
7: MUSSULMAN
The shellfish, "mussel", does it sound like (MUSSUL) fellow (MAN) = MUSSULMAN: a Muslim.
MUSSULMAN is a synonym for a Muslim, and a Lookup of the Day back in October of last year ...
8: DEAD HEATS
14: DICTATION
15: EVAS-IV-ELY
Save up (EVAS) four (IV) a place in Dublin (ELY) to be = EVASIVELY: by way of avoiding.
ELY Place is basically an extension to Upper Merrion Street heading south ...
16: IT-IN(ERAN)T
Is it (IT) a broken "tin" about here "near" [IN(ERAN)T] = ITINERANT: on the move.
17: ODE
Not paid for (OWED) by the sound of it, for = ODE: the VERSES.
18: RAT
What a nuisance it is (RAT) to get 10 more (IO) = RATIO: by way of proportion.
22: FAT-HERS
That's what overweight (FAT) women (HERS) = FATHER: women can never be.
24: MENTAL
Sent I (SENT I) this (MENTAL) = SENTIMENTAL: with emotion.
25: STATES
Such (STATES) men (MEN) make = STATESMEN: the best of politicians.
26: POSTAL ... anagram of "lost Pa".

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: ALL IN VAIN
9: MINUTE
10: DIS-CAR-DED
11: MISSED
12: AD-HE-RENTS
13: B(AI-LI)E
17: OAR
19: IN(V-IT)ED
20: ATTRACT
21: E-FT
23: 'TIS-AN-E
27: ATTENTION
28: T(AVER)N
29: D(EST-IT)UTE
30: OG-LING
31: USE-LESS-LY

Down
2: L(AIR)DS
3: INC-HE'S
4: VERSES
5: I-N(E)RTIA
6: LITIGANTS
7: MUSSULMAN
8: DEAD HEATS
14: DICTATION
15: EVAS-IV-ELY
16: IT-IN(ERAN)T
17: ODE
18: RAT
22: FAT-HERS
24: MENTAL
25: STATES
26: POSTAL

Answers to Crosaire No: 14079 - 15 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s Crosaire solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues
Print last Sunday's WEB Crossword

I really made a dog's dinner of it today. I got it into my head that what turned out to be REARMS started with SM instead of ending with MS. So I put in SMARMS in error. That led me to (and don't laugh!) instead of KRONER, ISENRR! Well, it looked pretty Danish to me! R0ow ...

Today's Crosaire Aria
23D: ANOTHER
When the New Seekers started out, Eve Graham (the brunette) took the lead in most of the group's songs. A year or so after Lyn Paul (the blonde) joined the lineup, Paul started taking the lead, and the tactic gave the group a new lease on life. In today's Aria you can hear Lyn Paul singing You Won't Find Another Fool Like Me from 1973. Years later, Lyn Paul is still performing. Most recently she has been touring the UK in the long-running hit musical Blood Brothers. By all accounts hers is the definitive interpretation of Mrs. Johnstone, the lead character.

The Clue of the Day
3D: I make an appointment with the good sister to flood this (8)
Now this clue, this makes me smile. M. Crosaire is very polite, suggesting an appointment with a nun, but I can see I-NUN-DATE, going out with a nun. I (I) with the good sister (NUN) make an appointment (DATE) = INUNDATE: to flood this. I-NUN-DATE ... it sounds like a confession!

The Lookup of the Day
19A: PALAVER
Somehow the Portuguese imported the Latin word parabola (meaning "speech, discourse") introducing palavra. Palavra was a slang term used by Portuguese sailors to describe their negotiations with the natives in West Africa. And again somehow, we took that into English as PALAVERING, but in the sense of "making idle talk".

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

Across
8: SENTENCE
9: REAR-MS
Back (REAR) the manuscript (MS) = REARMS: that gets one ready to be offensive.
10: CAN-NON
Able (CAN) in France, no (NON) = CANNON: to be fired.
Nice one ...
11: KIND-LING
The sort of (KIND) fish (LING) = KINDLING: that may start firing.
12: ER(RAT)A
In long time (ER-A) wrong sailor, 'tar' (RAT) = ERRATA: wrong.
13: AE-RATING
Russell (AE) reckoning (RATING) = AERATING: to be great gas.
George Russell, the author, wrote under the name AE ...
15: T(O)YS
The sty is in pieces (T-YS) round inside (O) = TOYS: for the children.
17: CANDLES
CANDLES must be wicked (have wicks) to be made light of.
19: PAL-AVER
Will your friend (PAL) claim (AVER) = PALAVER: to have a talk about it.
PALAVER, such a lovely word ...
22: LAYS
LAYS are narrative poems or ballads, sung by medieval minstrels, I just discovered ...
24: PET-IT-I-ON
To make much of (PET) it (IT) with "one on" (I-ON) = PETITION: request.
27: PUTTER
A PUTTER is no good of a driver on a golf "course".
29: CONTRACT
Becoming less, and an agreement.
30: YACHTS
I think there is an error here, but things have been known to have gone over my head ...
The intent was for "they cat" to be an anagram of YACHTS, but it just isn't. Anyone see it another way?
31: HEARS-E
Gets the sound (HEARS) of the East (E) for = HEARSE: transport.
32: EVID- ENCE
Take the plunge, 'dive', up (EVID-) is the start of the answer, EVIDENCE: give it, just in (a) case.

Down
1: RE-PAIR
About (RE) two (PAIR) = REPAIR: make as good as new.
2: STAN-DA-RD
Stanley (STAN) father (DA) gets the doctor, 'Dr', up (RD) = STANDARD: in the regular way.
3: I-NUN-DATE
I (I) with the good sister (NUN) make an appointment (DATE) = to flood this.
4: WEEKEND
Never strong (WEAK) by the sound of it = WEEK, in the Sun(day) = WEEKEND.
5: KRONER ... anagram of "OK" "err" and "N" for north.
6: W(ALL)ET
In water (W-ET) everything in (ALL) = WALLET: everything in the way of money.
7: EMINENCE
14: ES(P)Y
Yes (ES-Y) around the piano (P) = ESPY: look.
16: OSLO ... anagram of "solo".
18: ANEM-ONE'S
Might need help here ...
How "mean" so to twist (ANEM) starts off the answer, ANEMONES: your flowers.
Anyone got a different rationale? Perhaps using the ONES?
UPDATE: Liz has the explanation for us.
How "mean" so to twist (ANEM) your (ONE'S) = ANEMONES: flowers.
20: ASP-HYXIA
UPDATE: Liz has pointed out that there is more to this clue than I realized.
This will kill you (ASP) is the "start" of the answer, ASPHYXIA: by taking your breath away.
21: A-TT-ACHED
A teetotaller (A TT) was in pain (ACHED) = ATTACHED: and stuck with it.
23: AN-OTHER
A different him (sound of a "hymn") = ANOTHER.
25: INTERS
What one does with what's in HEARSE.
26: I'M-AGES
I take such a long time (I'M AGES) = IMAGES: idol (sound "idle").
Another nice one ...
28: ENT-ICE
The twisted ten (ENT) onto the ice (ICE) = ENTICE

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: SENTENCE
9: REAR-MS
10: CAN-NON
11: KIND-LING
12: ER(RAT)A
13: AE-RATING
15: T(O)YS
17: CANDLES
19: PAL-AVER
22: LAYS
24: PET-IT-I-ON
27: PUTTER
29: CONTRACT
30: YACHTS
31: HEARS-E
32: EVID- ENCE

Down
1: RE-PAIR
2: STAN-DA-RD
3: I-NUN-DATE
4: WEEKEND
5: KRONER
6: W(ALL)ET
7: EMINENCE
14: ES(P)Y
16: OSLO
18: ANEM-ONES
20: ASPHYXIA
21: A-TT-ACHED
23: AN-OTHER
25: INTERS
26: I'M-AGES
28: ENT-ICE

WEB Crossword No: 043 - 14 Feb 10

bill@paxient.com (Bill Butler) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

QuickLinks:
Print today's WEB puzzle (spoiler alert ... today's solution and clue explanations are included on a second page!)
Need just one answer? Jump directly to today's Reveal-An-Answer
Jump directly to today’s solution.
Jump directly to the explanations of today’s clues.

I think we agreed that last week's WEB Crossword, labelled with a difficulty rating of 1/5, was probably tougher than expected. So, today's 2/5 offering is about the same level of difficulty, I think, or maybe even a little easier. Given that it's Valentine's Day, I decided to be more friendly!

You might want to give today's puzzle to that special person in your life ...

And a reminder ... the Sunday slot is still open for anyone who wants to post his or her own, original crossword. Just contact me and I will help you with the mechanics of compiling and posting.

From an Admirer ...

Across
8 Abe takes Alan on to see Pearl's mother (7)
9 This girl has contrived to make something sizeable (7)
10 Request information about a gasket ... get away! (3)
11 I'm no chicken, get me into an unconventional trade (3,4)
12 With father back, it's more apt to make something that will connect (7)
13 Join the Spanish somewhere between Waterford and Dublin (4)
14 After five, the ferocious sort gets really loud (10)
16 Diana's company made such a song and dance back then (5)
17 Move quickly ... a friend from France left family for this (3)
19 Unstable nouns used with "billiard" or "kitchen" perhaps (5)
21 Before the CD, the French seem to listen to an individual called Jack on their decks (4,6)
24 Before Old King Cole gets the bug, sounds like (4)
27 The best wife for Dad ... an eye doctor??!! (7)
28 Hagman gets hats to the cockney, I hear, and with them he looks like a cowboy (7)
29 Add nothing in the end for Dee, and there'll be a fuss made (3)
30 Funny morning taking drugs (7)
31 A candidate for "eNOME"? (7)

Down
1 Lauded as a novel way for someone who flew not too high, nor too low (8)
2 I'm not happy or bashful, Doc, but I am silly (5)
3 Of course it's me at fifty ... an oaf! (4,4)
4 Something basic, like a tall tale at the boozer perhaps? (6)
5 Put nothing on top of that jumble of remnants ... they're for a special tree (9)
6 Your little brother takes first place for eating and drinking! (6)
7 An unconventional rep ... is he a Jew? (8)
8 It shows the way to Row R? (5)
15 Help for mother in these outrageous, hideous surroundings (9)
16 There's a message in one \ (8)
18 Nearly go crazy for 12 months (8)
20 Listen to the Eurovision winner before she gets banned for that scarf (8)
22 This left one trademark to us, and that's the acid test (6)
23 Found north of the border with silver hearts underarm (6)
25 The London gallery takes a second sample (5)
26 It's nearly true ... a British member gets the best-looking suit (5)

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 my puzzles more challenging and more fun!

I hope you spotted the secret message in the NW-SE DIAGONAL! BE MY VALENTINE!

Across
8 Abe takes Alan on to see Pearl's mother (7)
AB(AL-ON)E
Abe (AB-E) takes Alan on (AL-ON) to see = ABALONE: mother-of-pearl.
9 This girl has contrived to make something sizeable (7)
LARGISH
This "girl has" contrived to make = LARGISH: something sizeable.
10 Request information about a gasket ... get away! (3)
ASK
About a G-ask-ET ... GET away = ASK: request information.
11 I'm no chicken, get me into an unconventional trade (3,4)
RED (ME)AT
Into an unconventional "trade" (RED-AT) get me (ME) = RED MEAT: I'm no chicken.
12 With father back, it's more apt to make something that will connect (7)
AD-APTER
With father, 'Da', back (AD) it's more apt (APTER) to make = ADAPTER: something that will connect.
13 Join the Spanish somewhere between Waterford and Dublin (4)
W(EL)D
Somewhere between Waterford and Dublin (W-D) the Spanish (EL) = WELD: join.
14 After five, the ferocious sort gets really loud (10)
V-OCIFEROUS
After five (V) the "ferocious" sort (OCIFEROUS) gets = VOCIFEROUS: really loud.
16 Diana's company made such a song and dance back then (5)
DI'S-CO
Diana's (DI'S) company (CO) made = DISCO: such a song and dance back then.
17 Move quickly ... a friend from France left family for this (3)
FLY
A friend from France (AMI) left f-AMI-ly for this = FLY: move quickly.
19 Unstable nouns used with "billiard" or "kitchen" perhaps (5)
TABLE
UNS-table (with) no-UNS used = TABLE: as in "billiard TABLE" or "kitchen TABLE".
21 Before the CD, the French seem to listen to an individual called Jack on their decks (4,6)
AB-LE SEAM-AN
Before the CD (AB) the French (LE) "seem" to listen to (SEAM) an (AN) = ABLE SEAMAN: an individual called Jack on their decks.
24 Before Old King Cole gets the bug, sounds like (4)
GNAT
Before old King Cole (NAT) sounds like, gets = GNAT: the bug.
27 The best wife for Dad ... an eye doctor??!! (7)
OPTI-MUM
Wife for Dad (MUM) ... Mum, the eye doctor = OPTIMUM??!! ... the best.
28 Hagman gets hats to the cockney, I hear, and with them he looks like a cowboy (7)
LARIATS
Hagman (LARRY) gets hats to the cockney ('ATS) = LARRY 'ATS, I hear = LARIATS: with them he looks like a cowboy.
29 Add nothing in the end for Dee, and there'll be a fuss made (3)
AD-O
Ad-d nothing in the end for Dee (swap O for D) and there'll be made = ADO: a fuss.
30 Funny morning taking drugs (7)
AM-USING
Morning (AM) taking drugs (USING) = AMUSING: funny.
31 A candidate for "eNOME"? (7)
NOM-IN-EE
"e(NOM)E" is NON placed IN E-E (NOM IN EE) = NOMINEE: a candidate.

Down
1 Lauded as a novel way for someone who flew not too high, nor too low (8)
DAEDALUS
"Lauded as" a novel way, for = DAEDALUS: someone who flew not too high, nor too low, unlike Icarus, who flew too high.
2 I'm not happy or bashful, Doc, but I am silly (5)
DOPEY
I'm not Happy, Bashful nor Doc, but I am another one of the Seven Dwarfs = DOPEY: silly.
3 Of course it's me at fifty ... an oaf! (4,4)
ME-AT L-OAF
Me at fifty (ME AT L) an oaf (OAF) it's = MEAT LOAF: of course (at dinner).
4 Something basic, like a tall tale at the boozer perhaps? (6)
ALKALI
Like a tall tale at the boozer perhaps, an "alcoholic lie" = ALKALI! ... something basic.
5 Put nothing on top of that jumble of remnants ... they're for a special tree (9)
O-RNAMENTS
Put nothing (O) on top of that jumble of "remnants" (RNAMENTS) = ORNAMENTS: they're for a special (Xmas) tree.
6 Your little brother takes first place for eating and drinking! (6)
B(I-ST)RO
Your little brother (B-RO) takes first (I-ST) = BISTRO: place for eating and drinking.
7 An unconventional rep ... is he a Jew? (8)
PHARISEE
An unconventional "rep ... is he a" = PHARISEE: Jew.
8 It shows the way to Row R? (5)
AR-ROW
The R-Row (AR ROW) = ARROW: it shows the way.
15 Help for mother in these outrageous, hideous surroundings (9)
HOUSE(MA)ID
In these outrageous "hideous" surroundings (HOUSE-ID) mother (MA) for = HOUSEMAID: help.
16 There's a message in one \ (8)
DIAGONAL
There's a message in one DIAGONAL (\) of the puzzle = BE MY VALENTINE.
18 Nearly go crazy for 12 months (8)
YEARLONG
"Nearly go" crazy = YEARLONG: for 12 months
20 Listen to the Eurovision winner before she gets banned for that scarf (8)
BANDANNA
Before she gets banned (BANNED) the Eurovision winner (DANA) = BANNED DANA, listen to, for = BANDANNA: that scarf.
22 This left one trademark to us, and that's the acid test (6)
L-I-TM-US
This left (L) one (I) trademark (TM) to us (US) and = LITMUS: that's the acid test.
23 Found north of the border with silver hearts underarm (6)
ARM-AG-H
Under-arm (ARM) silver (AG) hearts (H) = ARMAGH: found north of the border.
25 The London gallery takes a second sample (5)
TA(S)TE
The London gallery (TA-TE) takes a second (S) = TASTE: sample.
26 It's nearly true ... a British member gets the best-looking suit (5)
TRU-MP
It's nearly tru-e (TRU) a British member (MP) gets = TRUMP: the best(-looking) suit.

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

Across
8 Abe takes Alan on to see Pearl's mother (7)
AB(AL-ON)E
9 This girl has contrived to make something sizeable (7)
LARGISH
10 Request information about a gasket ... get away! (3)
ASK
11 I'm no chicken, get me into an unconventional trade (3,4)
RED (ME)AT
12 With father back, it's more apt to make something that will connect (7)
AD-APTER
13 Join the Spanish somewhere between Waterford and Dublin (4)
W(EL)D
14 After five, the ferocious sort gets really loud (10)
V-OCIFEROUS
16 Diana's company made such a song and dance back then (5)
DI'S-CO
17 Move quickly ... a friend from France left family for this (3)
FLY
19 Unstable nouns used with "billiard" or "kitchen" perhaps (5)
TABLE
21 Before the CD, the French seem to listen to an individual called Jack on their decks (4,6)
AB-LE SEAM-AN
24 Before Old King Cole gets the bug, sounds like (4)
GNAT
27 The best wife for Dad ... an eye doctor??!! (7)
OPTI-MUM
28 Hagman gets hats to the cockney, I hear, and with them he looks like a cowboy (7)
LARIATS
29 Add nothing in the end for Dee, and there'll be a fuss made (3)
AD-O
30 Funny morning taking drugs (7)
AM-USING
31 A candidate for "eNOME"? (7)
NOM-IN-EE
Down
1 Lauded as a novel way for someone who flew not too high, nor too low (8)
DAEDALUS
2 I'm not happy or bashful, Doc, but I am silly (5)
DOPEY
3 Of course it's me at fifty ... an oaf! (4,4)
ME-AT L-OAF
4 Something basic, like a tall tale at the boozer perhaps? (6)
ALKALI
5 Put nothing on top of that jumble of remnants ... they're for a special tree (9)
O-RNAMENTS
6 Your little brother takes first place for eating and drinking! (6)
B(I-ST)RO
7 An unconventional rep ... is he a Jew? (8)
PHARISEE
8 It shows the way to Row R? (5)
AR-ROW
15 Help for mother in these outrageous, hideous surroundings (9)
HOUSE(MA)ID
16 There's a message in one \ (8)
DIAGONAL
18 Nearly go crazy for 12 months (8)
YEARLONG
20 Listen to the Eurovision winner before she gets banned for that scarf (8)
BANDANNA
22 This left one trademark to us, and that's the acid test (6)
L-I-TM-US
23 Found north of the border with silver hearts underarm (6)
ARM-AG-H
25 The London gallery takes a second sample (5)
TA(S)TE
26 It's nearly true ... a British member gets the best-looking suit (5)
TRU-MP