WI 37

[crockshard]

This is an otherwise simple cryptic crossword that only takes as long as it takes to write the answers in the grid. But I am stumped by 16a (this is not the Mephisto!): Play at getting in bed (3,4). I have ?T? A?U?. I can send down clues for the letters I have (eg the A is from FLAIL (Don't pass lake in threshing device), if required, but can't see what's wrong with the answers I have!

[vegasmad]

Hi, looks like it could be stratum (if 7 letters instead of 3,4) - strum(play) around at. stratum = bed.

[crockshard]

That certainly makes sense, Vegasmad. It must be a misprint in the setting! To fill in, the other down clues are: (for the T) 'Again Celts may be getting out of hand' : I have ESCALATING (anag.). For the U:'Sly worker goes after foreign articles': I have UNDERHAND. They seem simple enough, or am I missing something?

[vegasmad]

They sound fine to me, I think you are right it's more than likely a misprint.

[HowardKennitby]

stratum looks good for that

str AT um

strum = play

[crockshard]

Thanks, V. (& H.). Not going to waste any more time on this one. Will send in a complaint!