Universal Crossword Sunday

July 27, 2025

Adrian Johnson

 

[Note from JA: According to Jim P. -  the reviewer on Crossword Fiend - this puzzle is a very close copy of one by Ross Trudeau published three years ago. Trudeau's puzzle was also published by Universal Crossword. The reviewer was highly critical of the ethics in the publication of Johnson's puzzle.]

 

One letter in each of the six clues below can be singled out because of its position. These six letters - read downward - spell a word that cleverly reveals the puzzle's theme.

 

1. PRECIOUS METALS

2. VALUE MENUS

3. UC MERCED

4. ENJOY YOUR MEAL

5. BLUE MEANIES

6. GIRL SCOUT MEETING

 

HINT 1:

ENTRE NOUS

HINT 2:

The letter that is singled out in the first clue is the first S. 

 

Answer:

 

The letter that is singled out in each clue is the letter between U (and) ME:

 

1. preciouS metals

2. valuE menus

3. uC merced

4. enjoy youR meal

5. bluE meanies

6. girl scouT meeting --- The word reading down is SECRET - - - something that is between "u and me" (you and me).

 

The hint ENTRE NOUS is French for "between us".