9 across (6) A???E? Declared a verse outstanding. 25 across (6) A?T??? Engaged in change of course in storm. 5 down (8) ???T?W?D Upheld agreement to marry after wife`s demonstrated subservience. 26 down (4) ???? in speech, philosopher is unable to use specialised language. 28 across (3) (5) P?T ?O??? Lacking room to grow, best put back before spring.
Many thanks to all who replied. I feel a bit inadequate because there was nothing unreasonable about any of the solutions. The bit about "wife`s demonstrated subservience" produced a wholly inappropriate reaction of "if only" but the less said the better!