ALAN LEE’S CRYPTIC CROSSWORD NO. 453

Across

1 Cauldron begins stirring at wild party. (8)

6 At start of 4th crusade, president Warren’s title role. (6)

9 Take on fishing gear. (6) 10 Club ripe for take-over in U.S. (8)

11 Smooth back loop on ethnic dress. (8)

12 Noxious fluid in pen. (6) 13 Hide to attract the handicapped. (4,3,5)

16 Gain French soil and classify Chamonix. (6,6) 19 Repetitious vocals are hazard to the ears. (6) 21 Beggars make soft commanders. (8)

23 Vessel large enough for Moore and Barrymore. (8)

24 Diner in which we ate rye bread. (6)

25 Shifts slacks. (6)

26 Whole race ends in one being. (8)

Down

2 Calculator uses current inside a vehicle. (6)

3 Circle a male doll of hardwood. (5)

4 Goats sure to upset larger, older creature. (9)

5 and 17 “Express lane” tag creates most space. (7,7) 6 Worries mouse’s tail will get in cleaning gear. (5) 7 Convertible vehicle (taxi) with city lease. (9)

8 Losing standoff by opening bar, then joining. (8)

13 Tie tendon freely using restraint. (9) 14 Clandestine union gets work in part. (9)

15 Beyond the pale? (8)

17 See 5 down

18 Two painters got in at peak. (6)

20 Indicates in actions how set works. (5)

22 Doctor dined inside with professional companion. (5)