SERENADING

INSTIGATORPopular man occupying dump next to a hill is prime mover PATTERSONGMaybe Humphries' alter ego beginning to grasp Gilbert and Sullivan's speciality CASHBUFFERMoney set aside to cover emergency expenses PEACHYKEENDandy HALFSECONDSentient computer following subordinate for a moment HALFEXPECTConsider possible, but not guaranteed EQUESTRIANIs Queen Rat travelling on horseback? GEOLOGICALRelating to the study of Earth OHFORGETITReaction to the unsuccessful "conversation" in this puzzle ACETICACIDOne on prickly cacti I found on surface of desert – that’s sharp! (6,4) YOUREMUTEDResponse to "Good morning, everybody!" UNPUNISHEDWithout ramifications, joke locked in redbrick outhouse? (10) SINGLEFILEHow students often line up LACLIPPERSSoCal NBA team