The answer to each clue below is a two-word phrase. The second words of each phrase have something in common - which is a key to the theme of this puzzle. After you have answered the clues, see if you can discover the elegant three-word clue (in the form _____ of _____) that the  constructor used to reveal the theme. And........what is the theme?

1. The best offense
2. Contractions, but not the real thing
3. Iconic name in motor oil
4. Like some (non-alcoholic) drinks and bars

Answers:

1. A GOOD DEFENSE
2. FALSE LABOR
3. QUAKER STATE
4. HIGH ENERGY

What the second words have in common:

They are all names of Presidential Cabinet departments. 

Clue revealing theme:

HEADS OF TAILS

Theme: SECRETARIES  (Secretary of Defense, etc.)

Credit: LA Times Crossword
December 17, 2009
Samuel A. Donaldson
SECRETARIES