Try to make a date with a spy on the phone (3,3)

I believe the answer is:

ask out

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'try to make a date' is the definition.
(as in asking someone on a date)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for ask out that I've seen before include "Request a date" , "Informally, Invite on date" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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