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I thought that too Tatters as Google does reveal a spelling with two feminine articles however I think the conventional m/f pairing is what is intended. Could have done without such ambiguity though!

At least it's a gentle one for Xmas and the endgame is in no doubt.

Well I have a full grid, the work and can see a couple of related grid entries but that's it. Finding the down clue misprints is a regular thorn in my side and this is no exception. Grandchildren still hyperactive. Will this day ever end??

As others have said, a nice one for the end of the year. Two small things - I agree about the dubious plural which doesn't really exist, and I'm assuming that the middle word of the title of the second work isn't required. I can't parse 16D, though the answer is pretty clear.

Many thanks, tatters. My 20-year-old daughter (a beginner, but keen) and I were wondering if you would be there for us on Christmas Day, but we shouldn't have worried. Merry Xmas!

Hi Cockie,

16d - 6 letter word for "second-rate" minus it's first three letters which are a slang term for one meaning of "argentine".

Sorry, it's not a slang word - the first three letters means "argentine"

I am baffled by mention of a 'dubious plural'. There is only one plural formed and that is in Chambers in the plural form (of a word that is longer in the singular).

There's nothing wrong with the plural form per se, but it's not quite right for the thematic material. I can't say more for fear of spoilers at this stage.

Some earlier comments here (strange plural) imply that all incidences are changed by the final instruction. Doesn't that turn 17a and the connecting word into things that are not real words or names? Have I misunderstood?

Many thanks Tatters, was wondering how I would get my Listener fix today. Enjoy the rest of Christmas, (in peace and tranquility, hopefully) and have a happy and healthy 2021. And the same to all contributors.