Crossword Genius

The people to pine, perhaps, for a source of timber? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

scots

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'source of timber?' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for scots that I've seen before include "UK northerners" , "eg Glaswegians" , "Northern language" , "from Inverness?" , "Folk from Fife" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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