LINK-LETTERS II
Credit: GAMES Magazine - June, 1983
Will Shortz

Each clue below has two parts. Answer each part and determine a single "link-letter" that will join the two parts into a single word. For example, if the clue words were CHOOSE and LYRIC POEM, you would answer with ELECT and ODE. The "link-letter" (for you to determine) would be R, creating the single word ELECTRODE. The "link-letters," read downward, will spell a seven-letter word.

1. Use a broom - Seizes
2. Half the day - Exist
3. Huff and puff - "Crazy" birds
4. Brings to the ground - Imitate
5. Scare word - Coat with metal
6. Heifer's mate - _____ can
7. Swan, for one - Lady and _____

Answers (including "link-letters"):

1. SWEEPSTAKES
2. NIGHTMARE
3. PANTALOONS
4. LANDSCAPE
5. BOOKPLATE
6. BULLETIN
7. DIVERGENT

The "linking" word is SMACKER.