Possible Clues:

• As a rule this sounded wet
• Sounds as if it was wet, as a rule
• Sounds as if it was 19 across when one had gin in a rush
• As a rule it sounded wet
• Held sway, acquiescent son having withdrawn
• As a rule, 8 down sounded bad
• Prevailed, though apparently snubbed again, or overlooked
• Ruled (over)
• Was Queen hailed in speech?
• Sat on the throne