I give up, what are 7d Handy reference book, m-n-n- if my other answers are correct and 8d It';s said to produce a smile c-e-p- Also why is 1a "cables" other than it is a network. One of these days I'm going to crack these cryptics!
We all have to start somewhere -- and if I can have a go at cryptics anybody can. It's a question of practice, patience and not giving up.
Re 1 a - Cobweb is a character in "A Midsummer Night's Dream".
Full rationale:
C = Note ( musical )
OB = Old Boy
Web = Network