What would be found in alphabet hitherto (3)

I believe the answer is:

eth

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'what would be' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'in alphabet hitherto' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates a hidden word.
'ETH' is hidden within 'alphabet hitherto'.

'found' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for eth that I've seen before include "18's fiance" , "Ancient character" , "Little Ethel" , "Old English letter" , "Old letter; the (anag.)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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