CRYPTIC CROSSWORD no 1,184

Across

1 Robust poem about translator (6). 5 Military horsemen receive casual greeting instead of a courtesy (8). 9 Escape playing cards where the crew is working (6,4). 10 Time to copy record (4). 11 Potter working with matrices (8). 12 Swimmer prepares trout with breadcrumbs initially (6). 13 Expression of doubt about border (4). 15 Small vehicle for urban working released (8). 18 First book of series about tin clubs is likely to be explosive (8). 19 Must have massage during conversation? (4). 21 Exact way to keep prank unfinished (6). 23 US claims rights to such entertainments (8). 25 Sea creature is golden, more or less (4). 26 Cool cinema presentation kept to the minimum (10). 27 The business returns to betray religious ruler (8). 28 The first French composer to make a journey (6).

Down

2 Backward part of untitled little guide to pronunciation (5). 3 Overdoing indulgence is so tragic, I suspect (9). 4 Leave unfinished stupid black letter (6). 5 Curator met force, forced to get a little luxury (8,7). 6 Here old writers are rested (8). 7 Bloomer occupying Connemara’s terrain (5). 8 Shrink around expert to have children (9). 14 Commit arson after setback as welder (9). 16 On a bench I arrange fine ceramics (4,5). 17 Come together to accept clothing (8). 20 One accompanies European — UK national — around room,

to begin with (6). 22 Stage villain — male — in final form as louse, say (5). 24 Abandon holiday (5).