This crossword No. 9990 clues and answers were published on Sat 11 May 2002 and the puzzle can be visited by following The Guardian Quick Crossword No. 9990 link.
All Across Clues and Answers:
1-across – Bang – refreshment counter : BUFFET
4-across – Bet : WAGER
7-across – Brainteaser – sieve : RIDDLE
8-across – Brandy : COGNAC
9-across – Cultivate – cash register : TILL
10-across – Beautiful – glorious : GORGEOUS
12-across – Military group carrying out death sentence : FIRINGSQUAD
17-across – Boss : EMPLOYER
19-across – Slightly open : AJAR
20-across – Put down – whisky : SCOTCH
21-across – Fruit – colour : ORANGE
22-across – Absolutely – diaphanous : SHEER
23-across – Stop – take into custody : ARREST
All Down Clues and Answers:
1-down – Sheriff’s officer : BAILIFF
2-down – Violinist – cheat : FIDDLER
3-down – Crisis : EMERGENCY
4-down – Incorrect – injury : WRONG
5-down – Venetian boat – airship cabin : GONDOLA
6-down – Alcove – school break : RECESS
11-down – Water storage : RESERVOIR
13-down – Beg : IMPLORE
14-down – Ignorant : UNAWARE
15-down – Air current – drink : DRAUGHT
16-down – Against : VERSUS
18-down – Happen : OCCUR
This crossword has in total 25 where 13 are across and 12 are down.