This one certainly works better if you've solved the corresponding NYT crossword. The following clues should be read as:
- 7A7ASanta's syllable that Mr Yorke (within his abode) imagined [Read from the short central word, adding letters on either side three times][--------]: "HO" THOM, AT HOME, FATHOMED7ASanta's syllable that Mr Yorke (within his abode) imagined [Read from the short central word, adding letters on either side three times][--------]
- 10A10ASpanish for "yes," like when used for alleviating mockeries [Read from the short central word, adding letters on either side three times][--------]: "SI", AS IN EASING TEASINGS10ASpanish for "yes," like when used for alleviating mockeries [Read from the short central word, adding letters on either side three times][--------]
Hope the rest of the puzzle was still enjoyable!