CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. In this month, almost the whole of last month was an affront (6)

4. Magic? My wand has lost its end (6)

9. Biscuit that may have a motto in it (7)

10. After a start, one may be due a final word (5)

11. Catch sight of an English secret agent (4)

12. It isn’t enough to show off, as this bird shows (4) 13. Pieces to be made up into a small furry animal (3)

15. Part of an oar that will be useful to a weaver (4)

16. It is a rebuff for such a nose to be blunt (4)

19. With which one may draw fluid from a cuttlefish (3)

21. For an instant at the end it surrounds the castle (4)

22. If no mixture is made, the sherry will be dry (4)

24. QCs’ bar is on-target (5)

25. Drugs that work on one with a blend of teas (7)

26. They may have been farmers, beefeaters or signallers (6) 27. One with a protégé has no part to play (6)

DOWN

1. Licit in Derby, one might find it impossible to believe (13) 2. Sell cap in order for it to make cuts (7)

3. A stretch of water coloured red (4)

5. May have a longing for any reign to be overthrown (8) 6. Some cards may be taken by stratagem (5)

7. A rural relative is one unused to the ways of town (7,6) 8. Fellow has somehow worn a look of displeasure (5) 14. Trade to have communication with (8)

17. Bachelor surgeon from the past found it raised on the skin (7)

18. Now arranging to hold silver in the truck (5)

20. Martial art that will finish in a knockout (5)

23. Prima donna who was keen to turn up (4)