Times 23527

[RocW]

I found this one particularly difficult. I've finished it, but I would be grateful if someone could explain a couple of answers: Why is 27a DIPLOMAT? If it had been DYPLOMAT I could have understood better. As for 17d, I know a stone bass is a perch, but what does that have to do with a commendatore? Finally (yes I know that's more than a couple) I don't think I've ever seen a Tory, hardline or otherwise, described as "bone dry". Answers would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

[eddiebun]

I'm glad you thought it was tough, I did too !

sold finally - D verp cheap 1p look -lo cover - mat !

[kayakamina]

Diplomat....Sold finally = D...very cheap= I P (pence)

look= lo....cover = mat

D ip lo mat

[eddiebun]

During Mrs. Thatcher's " reign " there was a lot of talk of Tories being either wet or dry.

[eddiebun]

What what I remember looking up Commendatore is a Bass part is some opera or other. So a perch for him/her is a stone. I'm sure K will give you a fuller answer !

[kayakamina]

I believe the 'Commendatore's stone' bass is in Don Giovanni

[swannbaker]

The Commendatore in Don Giovanni is a statue . And sings .

[RocW]

Thanks to Eddiebun and Kayakamina. I would never have worked out why stone perch, although i should have seen the others