Think you are right K, but the H at the end of 1a. is from the clue ---- Bob and Hal brought up units of inductance, my logic was, bob = s and hal = henry, combine them and you get henrys, which is a unit measurement of induction. Judy
Judy, I didn't have time to look at the Mephisto at the weekend though I did keep the page, but - having just seen your question - I decided to have a look at the top corner at least. K is right with 'spiration' but, as the clue for 3 down suggests, the whole thing must be turned backwards. Thus the answer is YRNEHS. This means units of reciprocal inductance and hence the word 'henry' backwards!
So, 1across is now OA?Y. Shall I leave it at that? If not, come back and I'll help further.