Crossword Genius

The days I had ways (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ides

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'the days i had ways' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'i had ways' is the wordplay.
'i had' becomes 'i'd' (I'd).
'ways' becomes 'es' (east and south - two directions).
'id'+'es'='IDES'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ides that I've seen before include "mid-month for the Romans" , "date for 21 [ROMAN]?" , "ill-fated time" , "For example, March 15 in the Roman calendar" , "Mid-month date in ancient Rome" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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