Crossword Genius

Hide pay for escort first (4,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

take cover

'hide' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'pay for escort first' is the wordplay.
'pay for' becomes 'cover' (as in covering the cost of something).
'escort' becomes 'take' (both can mean to guide or accompany someone).
'first' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'cover' after 'take' is 'TAKE COVER'.

(Other definitions for take cover that I've seen before include "Seek shelter - buy insurance" , "Protect oneself" , "Find a place to shelter" , "Find shelter as, say, from bomb" , "Hide" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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