Earnestly request collection of elf stories? (7)

I believe the answer is:

implore

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'earnestly request collection' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'elf stories?' is the wordplay.
'elf' becomes 'imp' (synonyms).
'stories?' becomes 'lore' (lore can mean a body of traditions or learning).
'imp'+'lore'='IMPLORE'

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for implore that I've seen before include "Beg desperately" , "More lip (anag)" , "press" , "Beg earnestly, entreat" , "Beg earnestly, plead" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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