Guardian Cryptic #27960

2019-10-24

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Across

7a

Predestined, as curate was (8)

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9a

Princess in the Emirates briefly inspired sister (6)

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10a

Mawkishness from son in returning embrace (4)

11a

Rich patron from Benin found by police in south of France (5,5)

12a

Pop group lodged in Cotswold mansion (3,3)

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14a

Old grottos bordering lake cut off areas of country (8)

15a

Very large card bringing comfort in hard times (6)

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17a

Unobtrusive moves by Liberal in party succeeded (6)

20a

Besides catching plenty, Evans ultimately conceded bye (6-2)

22a

Contrary forces rapidly covering a huge distance (6)

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23a

Good-looking six-footer foolishly married short lady (3,7)

24a

Britten primarily a children's composer? (4)

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25a

A female halting, deeply aroused (6)

26a

Prominent Victorian dancing ladies, one entertaining Queen (8)

Down

1d

Pesters travellers on vacation touring Russian capital (8)

2d

Cruel Romeo's jilted Mary Jane (4)

3d

Blameless conduct arising under universal agreement? (6)

4d

RC burial conducted as per official rites (8)

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5d

Monk with smoother cloak, allegedly survivor of fire (10)

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6d

Overcharge to spend a penny (old currency not new) (6)

8d

Level for one river entering north-western estuary (6)

13d

Plays sensationalised madam's role perhaps (10)

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16d

Mark boards to form a West Country speciality (5,3)

18d

Curb coterie from which specialised units develop (4,4)

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19d

Passionate little Dickensian changes ends (6)

21d

Special person leaving? (3-3)

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22d

European buff (6)

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24d

Drop live commercial (4)

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