Crossword

[Kite1]

I am
Not sure about these two clues ans the answer I’ve arrived at
Explosive conservative- conservative almost becoming bully - I think is ‘pester’ but don’t know why

Confusion in words transmitted
Short of time I think is ‘mess’ but don’t know why.
Any explanations gratefully received!

[herbage]

Hector

[Lie-in King]

Everyman 3,757

19d Hector - 'H(igh) E(xplosive)' + 'C(onservative) Tor(y; almost)'
27a Mess(age) (short of time)

[goodgoalie]

Hector

[Captain2]

Mess(age)

[dannyk13]

Hector- HE(explosive) + c(conservative) + tor(y)

[herbage]

Explosive he, high explosive
Conservative c
Conservative almost tor(y)

[herbage]

I see you explain it clearer than me, Lie in King

[MamaLaird]

Mess is correct.You can add AGE TO it to make words transmitted

[Kite1]

Of course get it now. Thanks again one and all
And to Lie in King who always helps out!