Initial letters of superfluous words in clues give nightingale, quail and cuckoo, specimens of AVIFAUNA (5) represented by FLUTE (43), OBOE (40) and TWO CLARINETS (27 18) in the SIXTH SYMPHONY (13 26D) of BEETHOVEN (14). The symphony is known as the PASTORAL (1D/41, suggested by the puzzle’s title).
First prize Hugh Thomas, Ixworth, Suffolk
Runners-up Steve Reszetniak, Enfield, Middlesex;
P. Langdale, London N11
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in