Thus deserter followed such a file (3-6)
I believe the answer is:
rat-tailed
'such a file' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.
'thus deserter followed' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'deserter' could be 'rat' (both can mean a traitor) and 'rat' is found within the answer.
'followed' could be 'tailed' (I've seen this in another clue) and 'tailed' is found within the answer.
This accounts for all the letters.
This explanation may well be incorrect...
Can you help me to learn more?
I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution?
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