sapphire72, thanks for your enquiry. This is the best way to word a request for help with crossword clues:
1. state the number of the clue. In your case, they would be 8across and 17down.
2. say how many letters the answer should have. Put it in this form: 8 across, A woman without a husband, some feel, must be warped. (4,4). You must be accurate.
3. Friend in choir vexed with increasing number of syllables. (8), not: "friend inquire" or "increasing syllables".
If you don't give accurate information, we can't help you.
The answer to 17 down is rhopalic.