This puzzle originally appeared in the November 15, 1975, issue.
ACROSS
1 A bad time for gulls? (5,5,3)
10 Let loose around the incline, one doesn’t tread lightly this way. (7)
11 The Air Force story isn’t likely to be true, but it’s pleasant. (7)
12 A new car lot, not used in 5, probably. (9)
13 Match score? (5)
14 The ball might be where roles are assumed. (2,4)
16 Dip in one straightened out, and you’ll get held down. (8)
19 Giving a gin sling to the general? (8)
20 You might get away from margin if you do, and use capital to get started. (6)
22 One shouldn’t remember drinking from it. (5)
23 Such things are only found in a wild state. (9)
25 Portia’s confidante. (7)
26 As the poet says, open with a standard amount, and run! (7)
27 Nothing on cattle land takes flower, but the bearer might expect a hitch in the ceremony. (6,7)
DOWN
2 Physically unattractive stretch of land? (5)
3 See 9 down
4 Raising cattle with the French is not very effective. (6)
5 Saul or Samson, for example. (8)
6 Runners don’t always find this, unless protected, and loners wouldn’t seek it. (6,2,7)
7 When someone’s brought in with this, they might expect to 26 in the theater. (9)
8 Carrying the hose, perhaps. (8)
9 and 3 A viper’s head might show this shortly. (4,9,6)
15 Abstract art repels one who might be expected to cover the wall. (9)
17 Acted perturbed, when acted about that place! (8)
18 Brood, perhaps. (8)
21 A little way to go on wheels or walk casually. (6)
22 With an extended stretch of pine? (4)
24 It might be expected to follow a good act. (5)
Frank W. Lewis