polymath601

[lashley]

last one 2d formerly an officer under the lord chancellor whose task involved the sealing of writs 8 C?A?E?A?
thanks

[cupid04]

chafewax

[lashley]

many thanks

[AHearer]

If this is your last one, did you toss a coin to decide which of the two possible answers to enter at 25ac?

[Geoff.T]

AHearer - check the wording of the clue with the wordiing of definitions in Chambers

Geoff

[AHearer]

Yes, I can see that the difference between "Denoting one of the Greek orders of architecture, distinguished by its simplicity and massive strength" and "Relating to an order of Greek architecture characterized by the volute of its capital" resolves the ambiguity if you use that particular dictionary, but I still don't like it.

[Geoff.T]

Hi
I agree the clue is unsatisfactory and both answers could be construed as correct but Chambers is the usually accepted dictionary for most crosswords so I have gone with that answer.
Geoff

[AHearer]

I'm sure you're right, Geoff. T, and I should have thanked you for pointing out that wording.

I agree that where a specific dictionary is referred to in a crossword's rubric it is usually Chambers. Here there is no such recommendation and, as they say on the BBC, "other dictionaries are available." For example, OED has "relating to or denoting a classical order of architecture characterized by a sturdy fluted column and a thick square abacus resting on a rounded moulding" and "relating to or denoting a classical order of architecture characterized by a column with scroll shapes (volutes) on either side of the capital."

Sorry, I'll shut up now -- I'm even starting to bore myself.