The fascinating history of language! I still like the "clogs in the machine" story, though.
Thanks to all who contributed this week, 23 clues from 13 setters.
I particularly liked paul's 'bot' #4, malcolm's acrostic #12, skyewalker #15 &16, ginge #26, tyke#35.
I've given the silver medal to ginge's masterful &lit. #23
This week's winner is tatters' (or tatters's?) topical acrostic #19
Treachery of left-wingers squealing after Boris offered them a general election?
Well done, tatters. Your prize fits the clue, but I'm not advocating it;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbrkgwqjkxU
For those who have a bit more time, here is some early Hitchcock
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qukz70OaYf0
Cheers.