CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

7 On one’s mark to pester Hector (5)

8 A marine, in short, had a rifle to set off a warning device (4,5)

10 As a matter of fact, was certainly in action (6)

11 Time to add up, at last, forced to get access (8)

12 Live a bit, but make one eat humble pie (5)

13 Retreat to a pavilion in one station (4)

15 Was reconciled, as arranged, so paid up (7) 17 After a long line, before

16 down, was in disrepute (3-4) 20 Some of those in administration have to use a small car (4)

22 It’s reasonable to share with a leading lady (8)

25 Crack up, having had the misfortune to be in a collision (8)

26 Did a popular little child get round? Entirely (2,4)

27 Give instructions to a patient. It’s in the bag (9)

28 Turn over to a poor player, using an ancient alphabet (5)

DOWN

1 Intend to get right into action, having changed direction (9)

2 Shunned down-and-out was left destitute (8)

3 Talks a lot about one band of raiders (7) 4 Spend time in a lecture, initially, at the end (8)

5 Severely criticises cover-up on top of structure (6)

6 A marine, with the first half of 9 down, was ready for battle (5)

9 Need to correct some of the text offered, it seems (4)

14 I’m inclined to favour one party, but can still be even-handed (9)

16 A cardinal, for instance, was at the height of distinction (8)

18 Did one have to graft to construct the facade of a building? (8)

19 Join a demonstration in favour of a trial (7) 21 Did one live with a maiden in the same place? (6)

23 Have to cut back, having spent little time on the boundary (4)

24 Make a point to the Supreme Court, or else, initially (5)