TWO SPEED CROSSWORD
This two-speed crossword has two sets of clues, but just one grid. If you can’t solve the Cryptic clues, try the Quick.
Cryptic Across
4. A serious state – because of force which must be obeyed? (7) 8. Reflections considered important by public people (6) 9. Caresses produced by the one with the whip hand? (7) 10. What is taken from the barrel is hardly an appetiser (6) 11. Depressingly dull field study (6) 12. Contest between two groups using blades (4,4) 18. He grants somebody a hearing (8) 20. Put in a state of undesirable stillness – don’t panic (6) 21. Weak, but apparently one of a company (6) 22. Not reluctant to be disposing of property (7) 23. Dislike having been dispatched again? (6) 24. A big blow for a famous play (7)
Down
1. Slip out of gear (7) 2 & 14 Dn. Their progress on the track is closely followed by their coaches (7,7) 3. It’s a puzzle how he irritates people (6) 5. As unsympathetic as an incomplete version of the Old Testament! (8) 6. Bigger fiddles will produce bloomers! (6) 7. Almost the most splendid classical city (6) 13. They cause ill-feelings (8) 14. See 2 Down. 15. Put more to the top, maybe! (7) 16. About an evil arrangement to attack abusively (6) 17. From tomorrow all operators strike (6) 19. Offer to be compassionate (6)
Quick Across
4. Force (7) 8. Pictures (6) 9. Blows (7) 10. Savour (6) 11. Heavy (6) 12. University contest (4,4) 18. Hearer (8) 20. Make still (6) 21. Not stable (6) 22. Ready (7) 23. Feel bitter (6) 24. Storm (7)
Down
1. Undress (7) 2. Track (7) 3. Tantalizer (6) 5. Merciless (8) 6. Instruments (6) 7. Ancient city (6) 13. Illnesses (8) 14. Locomotives (7) 15. Raise (7) 16. Abuse (6) 17. Beat (6) 19. Sensitive (6)