Cryptoquote Spoiler – 12/29/18

“I am the wisest man alive, for I know one thing, and that is that I know nothing.”   —   Socrates

(Kind of paraphrased, but I’ve always loved this quote!  I always try to ignore the author, when solving these puzzles, as much as possible.  But, when it’s a one word/name author, like today’s, I always think ancient Greek . . . and then Roman.  Be well and do good, friends.)   —   YUR

Image courtesy of Google

Jumble Spoiler – 12/29/18

Visual Description:  Corroding conduit.

LECRI  =  RELIC,  VERNA  =  RAVEN,  TTETAS  =  ATTEST,  LODDEO  =  DOODLE   —   Giving us:  RIRNTOO

Clue/Question: The badly decaying metal gate at the old mansion was made of – – –

Answer:  “ROT“ IRON

(Not a difficult solve, but not the most satisfying pun – for me – either.  It might be a regional thing, but where I’m from the word WROUGHT and ROT are pronounced differently.  Sure, the difference is subtle, but it’s there.  I’ve always heard WROUGHT as RAWT, and ROT more as RAHT.  Both pronunciations are acceptable though.  I promise not to inundate you with dictionary links this time, because you can Google those things yourself.

Oldie but goodie clue words today.  Two of the jumbles appear to be new, with “lecri” and “ttetas” having definitely been used some time in the past.  They all came to me immediately this morning.  The answer letter layout was an admirable 7-letter jumble.  It hid the final answer nicely.

Fine cartoon of the old gated estate.  I guess the mansion must be set a ways back from the street.  I hope the guys are up on their tetanus shots!  It looks like the welder really has his work . . . cut out for him.  Enjoy the weekend, folks.  Be well and do good.)   —   YUR

Images courtesy of Google