CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. One such as Gabriel, found in a Russian port (9)

5. It’s a tailless pinniped, in the main (3)

7. How to fleece one for a castle (4)

8. The North is overcoy about means of transport (8)

10. Was flattered to find one’s toast had been spread (8)

11. Put it away, or he’ll get away without having bought a ticket (4)

13. Gratuity given to a favourite for a fur cape (6)

15. When small Reynard might box and endlessly cuff him (3-3)

18. A right to employ a piece of trickery (4)

19. Being against one’s frame, it will fight infection (8)

22. Affable way cigars are handed out around Otago University (8)

23. Money order that will disappear when one is right inside (4)

24. It is expected to be what one is owed (3)

25. Plant, ever-changing, is widespread (9)

DOWN

1. Tumbler from the bar, and coat provided for one (7)

2. A nail that’s not to be cast till May is out (5)

3. He produces plants in a long row ergonomically (6)

4. It is vivid, not being recorded (4)

5. Checking bleeding in City street, using phosphorus (7)

6. It points the way coming from Bow perhaps (5)

9. Control of fifty always follows it (5)

12. One might fool with a large-format book (5)

14. What it costs to mail a postal order gets complicated (7)

16. Refuse to deal with a land agent in Ireland (7)

17. Put up with the rude topless men who move around (6)

18. I’d followed the well-boring plant without bending (5)

20. Oil one used when in love maybe (5)

21. Drag leg out of the meal I’m preparing (4)

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION: Across 1. Invade 4. Crocus 9. Cartoon 10. Lodge

11. Iris 12. Sing 13. Rod 15. Neon 16. Stop 19. Arc 21. Vane 22. Belt

24. Oriel 25. Collude 26. Yelled 27. Caress

Down 1. Incriminatory 2. Version 3. Drop 5. Relegate 6. Cider

7. Steadfastness 8. Snail 14. Convulse 17. Presume 18. Snack 20. Chill

23. Flea