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Hello, Elle!
Cerasus has solved the mystery and posted the correct clue!
It appears The Times has blundered and inserted the wrong clue.
I wonder what Mr Rogan has to say for himself?
He's the crossword editor!

The setter has explained the error as follows:

"I was asked to change DIGRAM/RUNIC (DIGRAM being an alternative form of DIGRAPH, a word which many primary school pupils now know about, being adjudged too obscure)to SITCOM/CYNIC and so provided two new clues. Regretfully only one of these made it through to the paper"

Hi, Rusty!
Ah, well, we have exercised our brains to no account, over that!
I wonder will there be an apology from Mr R in the newspaper tomorrow?
I think your answer of "runic" to the clue printed is no doubt correct?
It sounds a good solve!
Perhaps the errant clue will be in tomorrow's crossword puzzle - in which case we shall be off to a good start!
I am still reading "The Brave" but nearing the end now......
I am not liking the "house arrest"!

Thanks for the explanation, Cerasus!

Hello, Elle!
I would put my shirt on there being no apology from Mr R !
It appears he (I presume it was him) asked the setter to change the clues and the new ones were not checked before they started the print run.
Bet Rose will be getting irate emails from annoyed solvers!

Hi, Rusty!
Ah, yes, Rose!
A very pleasant lady.
I enjoyed the short conversational exchange of emails that I had with her last year!
I didn't expect her to indulge in a private correspondence, and it was so nice that she took the time and trouble to do so!
I was impressed by her kind and friendly response.
Have you been out for a walk this afternoon?
I am missing my fresh air and exercise but do feel the better for keeping warm.
Hopefully, restraint now, will shorten the bug's hold!
But I am not a good patient!



Yes, thank you, Cerasus, for your input to clarify the "strange" clue.

Good evening, Elle!
Yes, Rose and you got on very well!
I read her column every Saturday and she comes across as a very nice lady indeed.
I have been home most of the day.
Weather has been inclement.

Hi, Rusty!
Goodness, I must have had a zizz!
Last thing I knew I was watching a recording of "Eggheads" from earlier!
I don't remember much beyond Jeremy Vine's saying hello!
Ah well, no doubt I must have needed it - probably due to the lack of fresh air.
1 think I shall go back to walking the dog tomorrow!
Yes, you are right, it does seem to be going colder.
I might need to turn up the heating.......

Hello, Elle!
I do that, too.
Just nod off for five minutes!
Yes, turn up the heating.
Now, if you are going walking tomorrow do not walk as far, or as long as normal.
Bugs can weaken your system.
Take it canny for a day or two!
It is fairly cold, though.
I have my fleece-lined shirt on today.
It is nice and cosy!

Hi, Rusty!
Yes, you are right.......sensible advice.
Perhaps I should play it safe, and wait another day before going out walking in the early morning.
It is very dark and cold when I usually get up!
I shall be happy when the clocks go back at the weekend.
I much prefer lighter mornings...... and the darker nights do not concern me, as I am normally safely home by the time it gets dark!
Your fleece-lined shirt sounds excellent - I remember seeing a picture of it!
Why do you not get another one (or two) with the Winter months fast approaching?
Or maybe an idea for Christmas presents for you, from the girls?
The shirts were available in some very attractive checks.
I think I need a coffee.........