TLS 869

[crucifernz]

Just need to check and get explanation

26 ACROSS Instrument gives back time (6)

SPINET I presume

But where's the 'gives back' ?

Thanks in advance

[boxtops]

What letters do you have already?

[crucifernz]

S_I_ _ T

[boxtops]

Looks right then, but I can't explain the clue either, it doesn't reflect backwards (gives back).
I like your cat.

[scrunge999]

Could it be SPINE (i.e. back) + T(ime)?

[boxtops]

well done, scrunge!

[crucifernz]

Thanks Scrunge999 - obvious really. I was too busy looking for a 'reversal'.

Boxtops, I like your cat too! Mine, called Cooper, is very handsome isn't he. He's been with me a year today, having come from a multi-cat home where he was very stressed and constantly bullied the other cats. He was on Prozac for a bit. He now has issues with 2 neighbouring cats, but at least he doesn't have to live with them. And he gets thoroughly spoiled by me...